Children and veterans were among the hundreds of people who marched together down Upper Street as part of celebrations marking the centenary of the Armistice. The Remembrance Day parade to honour those who lost their lives in WW1 finished on Islington Green, where a short interfaith service took place before the two-minute silence was observed.
During the service, Reverend Nigel Williams remembered the 10,000 people from Islington and Finsbury who lost their lives during the conflict. Wreaths were laid by representatives of the council, the armed forces and local community organisations.
Ronald Ranger, ex-chairman of the Islington Veterans Association, said: “It’s brilliant, the parade gets bigger and bigger every year and so does the veterans association. I was getting smiled at all the way down the street this morning.”
Deputy Lieutenant Dr. Charles Goodson-Wickes, who was representing Her Majesty the Queen, agreed. “Clearly the centenary has struck a chord through all the generations which is marvellous to see.”
As well as the multiple representatives from youth regiments, around 400 young people from local scout and guide organisations took part in the parade.
Joseph Goldsmith, a leader of the 1st Islington scout group, said: “It’s great to see so many young people here – there are scout groups from all over the district. It’s very important to for the children to do this. It’s how to keep the remembrance going. They understand it’s a sombre occasion but they do enjoy it.”
The parade was the first in a day of commemorative events, including services at Spa Green Gardens and Manor Gardens and a beacon lighting ceremony in Dartmouth Park in the evening.
