THOUSANDS of people across Redditch and Alcester paid tribute to those who lost their lives in conflict as part of Remembrance Sunday.

Politicians, veterans, and members of the public observed a two-minute silence held across the country and laid wreaths at memorials.

For the first time Redditch had a Chelsea Pensioner among its guests.

Simon de Buisseret was joined by members of 37th Signals Regiment as they marched from the town hall on Walter Stranz Square.

They were joined by the civic party and community leaders for the wreath laying ceremony at the war memorial, followed by a service at St Stephen’s Church on Church Green.

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Leader of Redditch Council Bill Hartnett said: "It was a great day, our special guest and Chelsea Pensioner Simon was a star. He led the parade marching up from the town hall to St Stephen's, gave an interview for local TV news, spoke to dozens of people, had his photograph taken hundreds of times, and read one of his poems in church during the service.

"It was an honour to meet and talk with Simon, who has children living in Redditch and had lived locally in Kidderminster, to hear of his time during his military service.

"He said he enjoyed the day and thought it was a great parade and service."

Also in Redditch Birchensale Middle School and St Augustine's High School, which also included students from St Bede’s Middle School and Our Lady Mount Carmel Primary School, held remembrance events.

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In Alcester Remembrance Sunday continues to grow in stature.

This year saw a remembrance dinner and lunch, a remembrance concert and two parades marking the sacrifices that the town has made over many world conflicts.

The Remembrance Sunday parade saw High Street full of residents marking their respects as a column of people snaked through the town to the Church Green.

The church service was officiated over by The Rev Adrian Guthrie and the parade sergeant this year was Simon Steedman.

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Mike Gittus, chairman of the Alcester Branch of the Royal British Legion, said: "This weekend has been a remarkable success and has demonstrated the continuing commitment of Alcester to remembering those that have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and well-being of their country.

"This year the Legion has re-thought the wearing of the Poppy, to not only include those that have fallen, but to remembering the new generation of veterans and serving men and women."

"Next year will be a very special year marking the celebration of 100 years since the conclusion of The Great War and plans are already underway to ensure Alcester can be proud of its heroes, history and heritage."