Large crowd attends remembrance service in Portchester

The event in Portchester shopping precinct has been held on the Saturday before Remembrance Sunday for the past 15 years.

It is organised by Commander Steve Shaw, from the Royal Navy, and sees cadets parade through the centre before a service is held.

Fareham’s MP Suella Fernandes read the poem ‘Who Are These Men’ and Mayor of Fareham Connie Hockley read ‘In Flanders Field.’

Vice admiral Sir Michael Moore also gave a reading, as did Rev Ian Meredith from St Mary’s and Portchester East ward councillor Roger Price.

Cllr Price, who also represents Portchester on Hampshire County Council, said: ‘The community of Portchester really came together. It is a very poignant moment and one of particular importance to Portchester because of its links to the services.’

The event drew a large crowd despite the inclement weather.

Dave Mockford, who runs Wicor Models, was watching the parade. He said: ‘It was wet and pretty miserable but they marched and played despite the weather,’

Vicki Nightingale was also in the crowd. She said: ‘It was a lovely service with a great turnout. A lovely, respectful tribute to our fallen heroes.

‘We will be remembering them again tomorrow down at the Guildhall in Portsmouth.’

Services are due to take place tomorrow morning at Portsmouth’s Guildhall, at the Royal Naval Memorial in Southsea, at Fort Nelson in Portsdown Hill Road, at the Holy Trinity Church in Fareham, at St Faith’s Church in Havant, at St Mary’s Church in Hayling Island and at the Lee-on-the-Solent War Memorial.

Veterans are invited to join a free buffet at the The Rose in June pub in Milton Road after the Remembrance services.

There will also be an annual uniformed youth remembrance parade at St James Church, Emsworth. It leaves Queen Street at 2.35pm and will head to St James’ Church, in North Street, arriving at 2.50pm.