Last week was one of the most moving periods in Worcester’s civic year, as our city came together to honour courage, service, and sacrifice.

It was a privilege as Mayor of our city to stand alongside residents, veterans, and community representatives at a series of remembrance events that embodied reflection, gratitude, and unity.

The weekend began with an Act of Remembrance at the graveside of the Reverend Geoffrey Studdert Kennedy – better known as Woodbine Willie – in St John’s Cemetery.

A Worcester priest, poet, and military chaplain who was awarded the Military Cross during the First World War, he became famous for his compassion on the front line, offering both cigarettes and spiritual comfort to soldiers in their darkest hours. His legacy of kindness and courage still speaks to us today.

On Remembrance Sunday, thousands of people lined the streets for Worcester’s traditional Remembrance Parade, as veterans, serving personnel, and cadets marched proudly to Worcester Cathedral for the annual Service of Remembrance.

I was honoured to lead the civic procession from the Guildhall, before joining the congregation for prayers, hymns, and readings that reminded us of the cost of conflict and the strength of community.

Following the service, wreaths were laid at the Worcestershire County War Memorial, and as the city fell silent, we remembered not only those from Britain, but also the many Commonwealth, Polish and Czech servicemen whose graves in our cemeteries remind us that the price of war is shared, and that peace depends on reconciliation.

Over the duration of the weekend the Light and Shade Veterans’ Exhibition at the Guildhall provided a creative and emotional reflection on remembrance. Curated and created by veterans, the artworks and poetry explored the contrasts between the darkness of conflict and the light of recovery, resilience, and hope.

On the 11 November itself a particularly special moment came with the arrival of the London bound Poppy Train at Foregate Street Station which I met together with members of the Royal British Legion.

The train carrying wreaths and tributes from across the region, linked Worcester’s remembrance with communities nationwide.

It was a powerful symbol of how remembrance connects us all – across generations, regions, and backgrounds.

The day concluded with a service for Armistice Day at the Cathedral War Memorial. Once again, the city paused in silence – a simple act that unites us in memory and in our shared determination to build a more peaceful world.