Hundreds of people gathered in Newport on Sunday (8th November) as veterans, serving personnel, cadets and families came together for the Isle of Wight’s County Remembrance Service and Parade, paying tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
St Thomas’ Square was filled with residents and representatives from across the Island for the annual ceremony, organised by the Isle of Wight Council’s Civic Office in partnership with the Royal British Legion and local churches.
Veterans stood alongside reservists, emergency services personnel, youth groups and cadets as the community united to remember those who served and sacrificed for their country.
The service began with prayers led by Rev Chris Bradish, followed by the traditional Act of Remembrance.
In a particularly poignant moment, Cadet Otis Ripley read the Exhortation, while his father, reservist Lance Corporal Mike Ripley, delivered The Kohima Epitaph.
The father-and-son involvement added a personal connection to the proceedings, reflecting how remembrance continues to be passed down through generations.
Music was provided by the Vectis Corps of Drums Marching Band, with Elgar’s Nimrod accompanying the laying of wreaths at the memorial.
Following the service, Parade Marshal Simon Tutton assembled the procession, which was led by the Royal British Legion Riders.
The Vectis Marching Band then led the parade along Newport High Street, with young cadets marching alongside veterans, reservists and emergency services personnel.
As the procession returned to St Thomas’ Square, a formal salute was given to the Lord-Lieutenant at the war memorial.
Councillor Ian Dore, Chairman of the Isle of Wight Council, addressed those gathered during the service.
Councillor Ian Dore, Chairman of the Isle of Wight Council, has said:
“Remembrance Sunday is a very special event – it’s a collective experience, belonging to us all.
“It was incredibly moving to see so many people come together in Newport, from veterans and serving personnel to cadets, young people and families, united in gratitude for those who served and sacrificed for our freedom.
“The presence of different generations marching side by side sends a powerful message. We honour the past, but we also ensure the responsibility of remembrance is carried forward.”
Sunday’s commemorations followed the annual Field of Remembrance service at Carisbrooke Castle on Thursday (5th November).
Members of the public, veterans, cadets and civic dignitaries gathered at the historic landmark to plant remembrance crosses in memory of those who lost their lives in service.
Councillor Dore added:
“On behalf of the Isle of Wight community, I would like to thank everyone who took part and everyone who paused to remember.”
