Remembrance Day in Nantwich.

After witnessing at first hand the events in Nantwich to mark Remembrance Sunday, I am incredibly proud of our town and everyone who participated.

First was the traditional ceremony at the American Airman's Grave to commemorate the selfless act of bravery by Lieutenant Arthur L. Brown, who ditched his USAF Thunderbolt into parkland to avoid hitting nearby houses in our town, losing his life in the process. Such acts of remembrance, which are particular to individual towns are important, as they can help people to relate directly with the sacrifice and bravery of those who fought for our freedom.

The Remembrance Parade, Church Service and Wreath Laying Ceremony that took place later in the afternoon were all supported superbly by those who took part, including the hundreds of members of the public whom turned out in force to participate and show their gratitude and remembrance. It was wonderful to see our local MP. Mr Edward Timpson, the leader of Cheshire East Council, Mr Michael Jones, and Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Major Jonathan Baldwin TD DL in attendance with the Mayor and my fellow Town Councillors.

Of special note however, were the younger members of our community, so often demonised by the media, who, as part of their youth organisations, conducted themselves with the utmost of respect. They looked incredibly smart in their uniforms and put many of us older participants to shame with their spotless observance of the protocols. They are a credit to our town.

The whole day, accompanied by the television pictures of the national ceremony of remembrance that took place at the Cenotaph in London, served as a wonderful reminder of just how good we are in the United Kingdom at 'getting it right' and 'striking the right tone' on these National Occasions.

I finished the day feeling immensely proud - of our town, our fallen illustrious soldiers and of our young people; and hopeful for the future of our country.

Cllr. Stuart Hutton.