Salford residents prepare for virtual Remembrance Sunday due to covid-19 restrictions
- People being advised to take part in virtual event
- Residents can have two-minutes silence on their doorstep
- Councillors across the borough set to pay tribute
Salford residents are being asked to commemorate Remembrance Sunday at home this year due to covid-19 restrictions.
Mayor of Salford, Councillor Charlie McIntyre, says this year’s remembrance will be different but no less dignified or heartfelt.
“Everyone of us across the country is fighting an invisible enemy this year – coronavirus,” he said.
“As a result, we have seen unprecedented but necessary restrictions on our lives to try and win the battle.”
A service will be held online on 11am on Remembrance Sunday, (8 November), which will show a wreath laying ceremony to remember those who fought for their country.
Councillor McIntyre added: “Working with the Royal British Legion, we are asking people to remember from home for this year while we remain under attack by coronavirus.
“Many veterans who normally attend the cenotaphs are older and more vulnerable to coronavirus, so I would urge people to remember that and participate differently this year.
“So many brave men and women paid the ultimate price and showed incredible spirit during so many conflicts.
“Staying home to pay quiet tribute to them instead is our sacrifice this year.”
There have been suggestions that people stand on their doorsteps and hold their own two minutes’ silence.
Councillor McIntyre said: “It’s a wonderful idea and harks back to the nationwide tributes paid to the NHS and key workers early in lockdown.
“I’d encourage as many people as possible to take part take part for our veterans and our NHS.”
Salford City Council will be displaying tributes to veterans with memorial banners and a giant poppy on the civic centre and people at home can also get involved.
The Mayor of Stockport, Councillor Dean Fitzpatrick, said: “It’s a great shame that we cannot all come together to commemorate Remembrance Day.
“But this year, is not like any other year. And as the safety of our veterans and residents is our number one priority, we’ve had to make some changes to what we normally do.
“This is still an important time to give our thanks to all who served and died for our country and honour those veterans and actively serving members of the armed services, in what are undoubtedly difficult circumstances.”
At present, church services can still go ahead with the correct COVID-19 measures in place.