Uncertainty over Remembrance Sunday events in Walsall
Organisers of Remembrance Sunday events in Walsall are being advised to carry on planning as usual – but to be prepared for Covid-related changes.
At a meeting on Tuesday, August 25, members of Walsall Council’s scrutiny overview committee were told annual services to remember fallen service men and women are assumed to be going ahead at this stage.
Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for community, leisure and culture, said they were awaiting national guidance on how events should take place. But he added they were determined to ensure some form of services would take place due to the importance to residents.
Thousands turn out every year on Remembrance Sunday for services across the whole borough.
Committee member Lee Jeavons said: “People start planning for Remembrance Sunday now and local groups have taken that on, going through safety action groups.
“How do we perceive that as panning out because clearly it is a very important community event in all our areas?”
Councillor Perry said: “We are saying to community groups and organisers, and I’m one of them in Pelsall, to continue with your plans as you would.
“Of course we need to consider areas where they have a parade so, we have a very short one but I know in Brownhills they have a parade and Walsall and other places.
“That may have to change because we are trying to restrict the ability for communities to mix in a close proximity.
“At the moment though, the plans are carry on as you are. We are waiting for national guidance on this subject.
“It is a very very sensitive area and with all the discussions we can have about Covid, this will be one of those that everyone will be watching and waiting for that guidance to come through because it means so much to so many people.
“We should at the very least do everything we can to ensure we recognise those who’ve gone before who sacrifice was their life for us in as much way as we can.
“If that means there isn’t a parade or a service where lots of people that can attend, we should still use digital means to have a public service at our war memorials in Walsall.
“Hopefully we won’t be there in November but all eyes are on infection rates and the ability to keep people safe ultimately.
“But at the moment, the decision is to continue as if we are in a normal situation but be prepared if that changes.
“The latest organisers will want to know if they can go ahead is late September.”
