People in Rutland are being urged to stay safe and observe Remembrance Sunday at home, in light of new COVID-19 restrictions that come into effect this week

Public commemorations had been planned in Rutland to mark Remembrance Sunday on November 8, together with Armistice Day on Wednesday November 11– honouring all those who lost their lives during the Great War, as well as those who have fought and continue to fight in other conflicts around the world.

The traditional format for these events had been altered to make sure they could take place in a COVID-secure way. However, with the recent announcement that England will enter a second national lockdown from tomorrow (Thursday), public attendance at Remembrance events is no longer possible.

Coun Ian Razzell, Rutland County Council Armed Forces Champion and former Army Officer, said: "We are deeply disappointed that we cannot now go ahead with the public commemorations that were planned to mark Remembrance Sunday and the Act of Remembrance on November 11.

"However, this will not stop us from honouring the fallen. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to mark Remembrance at home, for example by watching the Cenotaph service on television, listening to the radio or pausing for the national Two Minute Silence. This is perfectly acceptable and still a fitting tribute to our Armed Forces, under the current circumstances."

Wreaths will be laid with prayers at All Saints Church in Oakham on Remembrance Sunday (November 8). Members of the public are asked not to attend the ceremony. Instead, a pre-recorded version of the Service of Remembrance will be broadcast by Rutland County Council and All Saints Church on Sunday November 8.

A link to watch the video will be posted on Rutland County Council's website at 2.30pm, when the public Service of Remembrance was due to take place:

The Royal British Legion has also shared alternative ways for people to honour Remembrance Day, including:

· Creating a remembrance space in your garden by planting plants that have a connection to Remembrance

· Using Zoom, Facebook or another online meeting resource to host an online Remembrance service or activity

· Creating an online exhibition of remembrance related photos from residents that schools or others could use to discuss local remembrance activities

Full details of information and resources can be found on the Royal British Legion website.

Coun Razzell added: "Joining together in a moment of quiet reflection goes right to the heart of the spirit of Remembrance. As we approach Remembrance Sunday, we are asking people to share their stories and photos of loved ones who have fought or made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

"Anyone who would like to join us in doing this can post their memories on social media with the hashtag #RutlandRemembers and the Council will proudly share these with its community of online followers."