SAFFRON Walden witnessed potentially its biggest ever parade on Remembrance Sunday as soldiers joined veterans of past conflicts on a march through the town.

Led by the Saffron Walden Royal British Legion and soldiers from 33 Engineer Regiment (EOD), based at Carver Barracks, hundreds of people joined together in remembrance of those who have lost their lives while serving their country. Marching band music was supplied by The Three Circles Audio.

British legion parade marshall Mick Birnie said: “We had the largest number of people on parade I have ever seen. It is always a good turnout but this year seemed exceptionally good.

“I estimated over 300 took part, including soldiers from Carver Barracks, the Royal British Legion and veterans, with a plethora of uniformed groups and organisations, all of which marched with pride behind their standards.

“We were lucky to have marching band. I understand some people are disappointed that we do not have a marching band in the town but we have tried without success to secure the help of a band. I even made an appeal on Radio Cambridge, all to no avail.

“Those marching deserve good loud marching music and we at the British Legion are committed to providing it, so we are very lucky to have someone like Three Circles to fall back on, and for that reason they deserve all out thanks.”

After the laying of wreathes at 11am, the soldiers, veterans and members of various youth organisations, marched down the town’s High Street to St Mary’s Church for a service.

Mr Birnie added: “Again this year the people of Saffron Walden came out in there hundreds to show their support for the parade and the ideals of remembrance as a whole. It really shows the marchers how much the people appreciate all their efforts.

“I would like to thank all those who took part or supported this year’s parade.”