A COMMEMORATION of Armistice Day is set to be held virtually in Barrow this year in light of the coronavirus pandemic and national lockdown.
A parade towards the Cenotaph in Barrow Park takes place every year on Remembrance Sunday, followed by a service and wreath laying ceremony.
But with Covid-19 infections remaining at a high level nationwide and a lockdown coming into effect from Thursday, November 5, alternative arrangements are in place to ensure residents can pay their respects to the fallen without leaving home.
This year, a video will instead be shown on Barrow Borough Council’s YouTube channel featuring scenes from Barrow and the playing of The Last Post and Reveille.
In addition, people are asked to observe the Two Minute Silence from their doorstep.
The Mayor of Barrow, Councillor Kevin Hamilton, said: “The parade and laying of wreaths at the war memorial on Remembrance Sunday is always very well supported in Barrow.
“It is something that brings people together and unites our communities in their commemoration of those who have sacrificed their lives to secure freedom for all.
“We are all disappointed the parade and service can’t go ahead as usual this weekend. But with a national lockdown upon us and Covid infection rates still high, we must instead keep everyone safe by marking the moment from our own homes.”
Armistice Day takes place on the second Sunday in November every year to remember those who died in all wars.
A short pre-recorded video is set to be shown from 10.57am this Sunday, November 8 on Barrow Borough Council’s YouTube channel. Links to the video will be available from Barrow Borough Council and The Forum’s social media accounts.
It features Cllr Hamilton laying a wreath at the war memorial in Barrow Park, the playing of The Last Post and Reveille as well as bells ringing as Barrow Town Hall clock strikes 11am.
Individual representatives of local organisations are invited to lay a wreath at the War Memorial at a convenient time throughout the day, from 11am onwards. Rules on social distancing must be adhered to.
In addition, Barrow Town Hall clock will be lit in red from Friday, November 6 to Monday, November 9 to mark the Remembrance weekend.
Cllr Hamilton added: “Though we will be apart this year, we stand together in remembrance in Barrow.
“Look after each other and stay safe during the lockdown – to protect the most vulnerable among us and our NHS – and so that life can return to normal as soon as possible in the near future.”
