The Kent town of Sittingbourne is taking part in the international commemoration marking the 30,000th sounding of the Last Post in Ypres.
As Ypres’ twin town in the UK, it’s been invited to join the tribute, with a pre-recorded contribution.
The local authority, Swale Borough Council, has been working with a local film-maker to capture Sittingbourne’s pride in its links with Ypres, which stood on the front line for most of the First World War.
Sittingbourne held its own Last Post service marking the anniversary, led by the town’s Royal British Legion branch.
Councillor Andrew Bowles, leader of Swale Borough Council, said: “We are immensely proud of our links with Ypres, and feel honoured to be invited to take part in their commemorations.
“The Last Post ceremony began as an expression of thanks from our Belgian cousins for those that died for their freedom and independence.
“Now, it also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices our forefathers made for a better future for us all.
“By sharing this milestone event across the world, we can make sure these sacrifices are remembered, and people understand the price of the freedoms that can be too easily taken for granted.”
More details of the 30,000th Last Post can be found in Centenary News here.
Information & images supplied by Swale Borough Council
Posted by: Peter Alhadeff, Centenary News