We will Remember them...

 

As a subdued nation remembered the many lives lost in two world wars, Chigwell Row held a low-key memorial of its own. Our faithful local Vicar Paula Preston invited Councillor Rochelle Hodds to join her in a socially-distanced time of quiet contemplation at All Saints Church.

Cllr Rochelle brought a wreath of poppies that was placed at the location of a memorial for those who lost their lives from Chigwell Row, on behalf of the Chigwell community.  The Reverend Paula Preston then read out a local roll call of those brave young men who fought valiantly and gave their lives, to preserve the freedoms for the many generations that have been birthed in the UK, since the devastating wars.

Rev Paula, said:

"The National Lockdown restrictions meant that we had to scale back our local Remembrance Sunday plans this year but we in Chigwell Row played our part in the National Commemorations. 

"A bell in the All Saints’ Church tower tolled in honour of those who have fallen in the two world wars and other conflicts."

"The church is suitably decorated and will be open for private prayer until the current Covid-19 restrictions are lifted."

Cllr Rochelle Hodds, said:

"I was honoured to be a part of the Remembrance Service yesterday, albeit so different from previous years but with the same emotion of gratitude for the sacrifices so many made for us to be free."


Along major roads across Chigwel the Parish council has also placed some large poppies on the poles of the traffic


-lights.  Mirroring a similar commemoration that was held in Chigwell Row last year.



Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of Chigwell Row Residents Association, said:

"It was important that our community commemorated the end of the two world wars.

"Millions of lives were lost and the people of that era went through the toughest of experiences.

"While we go through the COVID-19 lockdowns the fortitude of people back then should inspire us to get through our own times.

"The camaraderie and sacrifices of those involved in the war effort is something generations have come to cherish and aspire to.

"The brutality of two world wars took a heavy toll and seared in our collective minds the need to avoid a repetition.

"The indomitable spirit of those heroes from our past remains a testament to all future generations - we should never forget how much we owe them.

"Our freedom was restored by the truest of heroes."

A cross with Poppies on the green of All Saint's Church





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