The annual parade and service provided an opportunity for the community to come together and honour those who have served and sacrificed.

Residents joined veterans, serving personnel, community organisations and local dignitaries on Sunday 8 November as Littlehampton marked Remembrance Sunday.

The commemoration was a moment of reflection and remembrance. Following a parade, attendees assembled at the war memorial, where wreaths were laid in tribute to members of the Armed Forces, past and present.

The parade was organised by Littlehampton Town Council with representatives of local uniformed organisations and was led by Terry Gaunt, Parade Marshal. The service was conducted by Reverend Celia Woodruff of St Mary’s Church and included a Prayer of Remembrance and the Lord’s Prayer. Lindsey Stratton, a veteran, read the Act of Remembrance and members from the 1st Wick Guides read the Kohima Epitaph. The Last Post was followed by two minutes’ silence, then Reveille.

The Town Mayor, Councillor Maralyn May, laid a wreath alongside Commodore Michael Mansergh CBE, West Sussex Deputy Lieutenant and Councillor Jill Long, Chair of Arun District Council. Littlehampton Town and West Sussex County councillors joined them as well as local MP Alison Griffiths.

Representatives from Littlehampton’s uniformed organisations, emergency services and community groups paid their respects, laying wreaths on behalf of their organisations.

Following the ceremony, many attendees gathered at St Mary’s Church for a special service, where uniformed groups, dignitaries and members of the public reflected on those who have served and sacrificed. Reverend Woodruff spoke of the true meaning of remembrance and shared stories of those whose names are carved on the war memorial. 

Councillor Maralyn May, Mayor of Littlehampton, said: “Remembrance Sunday is an important opportunity for our community to come together and honour the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our freedoms. It was wonderful to see so many local people gathered to pay tribute to the brave servicemen and women who gave their lives for our country, and we thank everyone who attended, helping to make the occasion both respectful and meaningful.”

Littlehampton Town Council extends its thanks to everyone involved in organising and supporting the event, including volunteers, participants and members of the public. Their commitment helped ensure a fitting and dignified tribute to those who have served, and continue to serve, their country.