Thank you Shinfield Parish Community
We will remember them...
The evening started with a short but respectful service of thanksgiving for the 6 men from the parish that lost their lives in the war and the many others whose lives were disrupted in so many ways. Thanks to Pastor Nathan Hunt and rev David Little for leading the service where Reading Scottish Pipe Band provided the music for a rendition of Amazing Grace while Cllr Andrew Grimes laid a wreath on behalf of the community.
The mood changed to one of celebration as the pipe band led a parade of over 200 including Army Cadets and Girl Guides towards the Ridge playing tunes to stir the heart (and slightly bemuse those who came to their doors to observe proceedings).
On a slightly windy ridge as the sun was setting there were speeches from Yuan Yang MP and Cllr Andrew Grimes (Click here for full speech) followed by a short prayer by Rev Nigel Beer. After another tune from the band the crowd counted down from ten for the lighting of the beacon after which the event came to a close with a Lament from alone piper.
Our thanks to all those who helped make the event a success and in particular those who turned up and took part and waved their union flags. In particular we were delighted to welcome a lady who was 105 years young and regaled some of the parish team with her memories of 80 years ago. Her smile at being part of the event was reward enough for the team’s hard work.
Throughout May, we are showing WW2 films to align with VE80 Celebrations. Visit, www.wegottickets.com/ShinfieldCinema
