Remembrance 2011
Record turnout for annual service
There was a record turnout and glorious autumn sunshine for the 2011 Remembrance service at Radnor Street Cemetery Chapel.
It was standing room only for the service, conducted by Deacon Dennis Sutton, before wreaths were laid by the Mayor of Swindon, Coun Ray Ballman, and members of the Armed Forces. Local scouts laid crosses/poppies on the war memorial before placing one on each of the cemetery's Commonwealth War Graves.
Services have been held at the cemetery every year since 2004, but for the first time this year, it was followed by a guided walk in which Mark Sutton and Frances Bevan told some of the stories of war heroes who are either buried at Radnor Street or who have memorials there, as well as the impact on their families.
Fittingly, the service was chosen to reveal the news that as well as the newly installed war grave for William Pitt, three others are to be honoured: Herbert Marfleet, William George Driver and William Metcalfe Packer. Their final resting places are expected to be replaced with distinctive official war graves during 2012.
There will be more events at the chapel during 2012, including guided walks. Watch this space for details.