ISLANDERS paid tribute during the Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph yesterday to those who gave their lives in two world wars and in the conflicts which have followed.

On a windy but dry and sunny November day, around 1,500 people lined both sides of the Cenotaph to watch the service. The laying of poppy wreaths preceded the marchpast which included a number of war veterans who were among those applauded as they went by. After the Last Post was sounded just before 11 am, there was a two-minute silence, which was brought to a close with a saluting gun and the notes of the reveille.

The first poppy wreaths were laid by the Lieutenant Governor, General Andrew Ridgway, the Bailiff, Sir Philip Bailhache, Chief Minister Frank Walker and the Constable of St Helier, Simon Crowcroft. Jurats of the Royal Court, Crown Officers, and States Members were also present. The Cenotaph, on which is carved the words ‘à ses enfants morts pour la patrie’, was surrounded by a sea of red petals after more wreaths were laid by Chelsea Pensioners (pictured), representatives of ex-servicemen and women, uniformed organisations, emergency services, associations and individuals. 

Music was provided for the service and parade by a number of bands including the Band of the Island of Jersey and the Salvation Army Band. The parade, which was commanded by Major Andrew Pritchard of the Jersey Field Squadron, drew to a close outside the Town Hall, where the salute was taken by the Lieutenant Governor.

• Words: Diane Simon      • Pictures: Matthew Hotton        • Picture sales: Click here