Due to the unprecedented situation that the country faces with the pandemic the traditional Remembrance Sunday service will be different this year.
A small church service will be held at Bolton Parish Church on Remembrance Sunday, November 8.
Attendance at the service will be limited to meet government COVID-19 guidelines and will be by invitation only with priority being given to Armed Forces organisations.
Members of the public will be able to watch the service live via https://www.bolton.gov.uk/remembrance and it will also be broadcast live on Bolton FM.
Wreaths can be laid at any time, at any of the borough’s war memorials, from Remembrance Sunday 8 to Armistice Day 11 November, to reduce the risks associated with the normal gatherings that would take place in each area.
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Marshals will be in place on Victoria Square during busy periods to offer advice and guidance.
Unfortunately, it has been necessary to cancel all other services and parades across the borough.
“It is very disappointing that our traditional Remembrance Sunday services will be different this year with the cancellation of the parades, but as a council it is our duty first and foremost to protect the health of our people and to do so in line with relevant laws and government guidance,” said Councillor Linda Thomas, the Mayor of Bolton.
“People will be able to lay their own wreathes at war memorials around the borough and watch the live stream of the service from Bolton Parish Church.
“We would like to welcome people to show their appreciation and to take part in an Act of Remembrance by placing photographs, drawings and artwork of poppies in the windows of their homes, and places of work, in a similar way to which we supported our NHS workers during lockdown.”
Councillor David Greenhalgh, the Leader of Bolton Council, added: “Remembrance Sunday is, for me, probably the most important day in the borough’s Civic Calendar, and it is deeply frustrating that this virus is preventing us from remembering those brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice, in our usual manner. But we will never forget them and we will ensure that this day of all days is marked in a suitable, reflective and poignant manner.”
The council is also encouraging people to make sure Remembrance Sunday is still marked appropriately by taking part in a two-minute silence from their doorsteps at 11am on Sunday, November 8, 2020.
These plans are subject to change at any time, in line with changing government advice.