East Garston

November the 11th in East Garston dawned brightly. The wintery sun cast its yellowy-orange glow over the 65 or so people whom had gathered for this, the third service of remembrance at the War Memorial, conducted by the Reverend Tony Cumberlidge. Each year the number of people in attendance has risen, proving yet again that this particular service, missing from the calendar for so many years - is a much needed, highly respected element of East Garston village life.

This years service was preceeded by a 20 minute ring of muffled bells from members of East Garston's band of Church bellringers.
(Library Photo)

Friendly greetings and quiet conversation as we wait for service commencment. This year as well as the muffled bells, we were fortunate to have accomplished Musician, Gemma Fowkes here to sound "Last Post" and "Reveille".

At 10-45am prescisely, Reverend Cumberlidge began the service of remembrance for 2006

There were three wreaths laid this year. One from The Royal British Legion, One from the Parish Council on behalf of the parishioners of East Garston, and for the first time, a wreath from All Saints' Church.

Laurence Binyon’s Lines were given by Col (Ret’d) Marcus Coombs, late Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
The Kohima Epitaph was given by former Sgt.Terry Butler who served with the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment.
Gemma Fowkes of The Royal Academy of Music, sounded "Last Post" and "Reveille".

At the well attended service on Sunday in All Saints Church, Dawn Tonge very fittingly called The Roll of Honour, as her Uncle,
David Pounds was among the fallen in the 2nd World War. Dawn then placed a wreath upon the tablet bearing the names.


Dawn with the Roll of Honour	Joan Jefferys' church display	David Kibblewhite Pounds	War Memorial Wreath & Crosses

During the service, Revd. Cumberlidge reminded the congregation that Remembrance is not just about the young men and women who gave their lives courageously and never returned, but also about those who did return with the scars of war that have remained with them for the rest of their lives

Photos : Ken Tarbox
Text : Sally Wright : Ken Tarbox

David Pounds photograph repaired & remastered by Ken Tarbox