The service, led by Revd Canon Angus MacLeay in his final Remembrance Service before retirement, was described by attendees as ‘beautiful’ and ‘brilliant’. Readings were delivered by Fr Piotr from St Thomas Church, and Sgt Engelbrecht recited the Kohima Prayer.
Uniformed groups, including Sevenoaks Sea Cadets, Air Training Corps, Army Cadet Force, Sevenoaks Guides, and Sevenoaks District Scout Council, paraded to the recently restored Vine War Memorial. The Eynsford Concert Band provided musical accompaniment, and the Last Post was played by the Sea Cadets before a two-minute silence was observed.
Wreaths were laid by the Mayor of Sevenoaks, Cllr Victoria Granville, accompanied by the Mayor’s Cadet, followed by HM Deputy Lieutenant of Kent Lord Sackville, Laura Trott MBE MP, and Kent County Councillor Richard Streatfeild MBE. Representatives from over 35 organisations also paid their respects.
In preparation for the event, Sevenoaks Town Council organised a community knitting and crochet project for poppies displayed near the War Memorial. Special thanks were extended to all contributors.
“"Thank you to everyone involved in organising and leading the Sevenoaks Remembrance Service and Parade. It was a moving occasion, and it was wonderful to see such a fantastic turnout, with so many members of the community coming together in remembrance. It was particularly special this year to gather around the Vine War Memorial following the Town Council’s recent restoration, and to appreciate the excellent work that has been done to restore this monument for the community."
The community is invited to an Armistice Day Service at Greatness Cemetery on Wednesday, 11 November, at 10:45am. The Mayor of Sevenoaks will lay crosses on the war graves, with prayers led by Fr Robin Jones from St John the Baptist Church.
