Reader's letter: Message passed to next generation

At about 10.30am on Wednesday, November 11, I walked through Newark Market Place to take part in the ceremony of remembrance at 11am.

A young boy with his grandmother stood in front of me and gave me a very smart salute.

I returned his salute and he asked me about my medals ­— I was dressed in my Royal Naval Association number ones uniform.

We chatted about the medals and about the cuddly toy he was carrying which I mistook for a teddy bear, but it turned out to be an otter. But he did say he liked bears who liked marmalade.

It was getting close to parade time so I had to say goodbye, he gave me another smart salute, which I returned and I made my way to the town hall steps.

I would like to thank that young man and his grandmother for his interest in me and for being there in the market place on that important day. ­— JIM CRAGG, ex- Royal Navy Chief Petty Officer.