Remember them in your own way at home - veteran's plea after Washington Remembrance Day commemorations cancelled

Malcolm Pickering, 64, who has organised the Washington Remembrance Day service since 2010, said he has taken the difficult decision to cancel this year's event as coronavirus cases continue to rise and new restrictions come into force.

Malcolm, who served his country in the Falklands, Yugoslavia, New Guinea and both Gulf Wars, is now pleading with the public to mark the day in their homes after cancelling the traditional service.

The cancellation came after a rise in coronavirus cases saw the North East put under special restrictions, and in light of worries over large crowds gathering to pay their respects.

Wearside’s biggest commemorations in Sunderland city centre have already been confirmed as cancelled.

Malcolm said: “It’s a great shame to have to cancel. It shouldn’t have to happen but we must protect those who are at high risk. We originally planned a scaled down service with just a reef laying, but it quickly became apparent this was still going to attract large crowds who wanted to pay their respects.

“I encourage people to commemorate this year indoors. Stand at your door and clap, give a minute's silence or watch the Queen lay a wreath at the London Cenotaph on its 100th year anniversary.”

Malcolm is already in the process of planning for next year’s Remembrance ceremony and is keen to make up for what is missed out on this year with a full service being planned, should all be alright to do so.

Sunderland Mayoress, Councillor Dianne Snowdon, who represents Washington Central, added: “As a military mum as well as a local councillor, I was bitterly disappointed that we were told we could not hold our remembrance Service in Washington Village this November, but in these difficult times we must do all we can to protect our community and families.

“I ask everyone who would usually join us on Remembrance Sunday to stay home, stay safe and do your bit to mark Remembrance Sunday in your own home.”

The news comes after Sunderland City Council announced that this year's Remembrance Day service and parade will be held online.

A message from the Editor:

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our advertisers - and consequently the revenue we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.

Subscribe to the Sunderland Echo website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than 5 articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Visit here to sign up. You can subscribe to the newspaper with 20% off here. Thank you.