Wreaths laid at memorial

Poppy wreaths and crosses were laid on the war memorial at Newark Parish Church by pupils from eight town schools.

More than 200 pupils attended the ceremony, which was followed by a service at the church led by the Rector of Newark, the Rev Vivian Enever.

It was also attended by members of the Royal British Legion and civic dignitaries.

The Last Post was played by Mr Roger Bryan before a minute’s silence.

The children paraded into the church, led by the Mayor of Newark, Mrs Irene Brown, and Mr Enever.

The theme of this year’s service was remembering the past, living in the present and looking to the future.

Mr Enever spoke about war medals that belonged to his grandfather, Sir Francis Enever, and the importance of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance.

During the service white doves of peace, created by pupils, were collected and placed before the altar.

There were readings by pupils from Christ Church Infants’ School and Barnby Road Academy.

Youngsters from Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Primary School led prayers for peace, the families of Servicemen, casualties of war and serving soldiers.

The ceremony and service were also attended by pupils from Mount, Bishop Alexander, Bowbridge and Lover’s Lane primary schools and the William Gladstone Primary School.