Plans For Remembrance Sunday In Sheffield

This year, Sheffield will pay its respects to those who gave their lives for their country by streaming a commemoration service online on Remembrance Sunday.

Due to Coronavirus crowd restrictions, traditional Remembrance Sunday parades on Sunday, November 8, will not go ahead.

The reimagined event, which will consist of a short wreath laying and act of remembrance accompanied by one Bugler, will be filmed and will be available on the Youtube channel, SheffieldCCouncil, and shared on Facebook at 11am on Sunday 8 November, and again on Wednesday 11 November.

The new format for the event has been created to help curb the spread of Coronavirus across the city, whilst ensuring people can pay their respects safely from their home.

Sheffield City Council Leader, Cllr Julie Dore said:

“This year marks the 75 year anniversary of the end of World War Two, the 75th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day, as well as the 80th anniversary since the Blitz. I know that people may be disappointed to hear that the usual Remembrance celebrations this year will not be going ahead.

“With the current health climate preventing a parade or large-scale ceremony from taking place, we have had to significantly alter the way in which we honour the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces, veterans, allies, and the civilian servicemen and women.

"The city centre ceremony has always been very well attended; however public safety is always our main priority. I’m sure everyone will understand that in light of the ongoing pandemic, ‘Remember at Home’ is the safest way to mark the occasion.”

Other organisations and individuals across the city may also be planning their own service within their local communities. The Government has made an exception to the current regulations on events and ceremonies, to allow Remembrance Sunday commemorations to go ahead, provided appropriate precautions are undertaken by the event organiser.

Local organisations can download the guide, and risk assessment, to plan their services in both a respectful and safe way.

Sheffield Council would courteously ask that any private individuals or city organisations wishing to lay a wreath and pay their respects at the city centre cenotaph, do so between the 8 – 11 November, avoiding the traditional 11.00am commemorative service time. This will allow for respects to be paid in a safe and socially distanced manner.

People are reminded that under the national lockdown restrictions, private observances must be with members of household, or support bubbles only.

More information is available on the British Legion’s website about the ‘Remember At Home’ campaign.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeEqsEqJnAUnqMPe4imJjDA