Remembrance Sunday could be marked with two-minute silence on doorsteps as Boris urges ‘honour our veterans’
REMEMBRANCE Sunday could be marked with a two-minute silence held on doorsteps as Boris Johnson urges Brits to “honour our veterans”.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic this year’s Remembrance Day tributes will be very different from usual as the public has been barred from the main wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph and Royal British Legion parades have been cancelled.
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Only a small number of armed forces veterans, members of the Royal Family and political leaders will be able to attend the Cenotaph service this year.
Instead people are being urged to mark the solemn occasion by holding a two-minute silence on their doorstep, in a similar way to people being urged to show their support for NHS and key workers with 'Clap for Carers'
Boris Johnson told the which has launched a campaign: “The pandemic will not stop us from honouring the sacrifice and valour of our veterans, the bravest of the brave, the best of what it means to be British.”
He added: “November is the time of year we usually stand side by side to remember the millions of men and women from across Britain and the Commonwealth who fought for our freedoms in the First World War, from the muddy trenches of the Western Front to the munitions factories at home.
“Unfortunately, this year, it is with a heavy heart that I must ask the public not to attend the ceremony at the Cenotaph in order to keep veterans safe, and reduce the spread of the virus.
Let’s stand together in solidarity on doorsteps across the country this Remembrance Sunday
Boris Johnson
“Let’s stand together in solidarity on doorsteps across the country this Remembrance Sunday.”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has also backed the move, saying: “We can still honour our heroes.
“We can still pay our respects by standing on our doorsteps at 11am on Remembrance Sunday to mark the two-minute silence. We can still remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and who we will never forget.”
Under the current three-tier alert system, an exemption has been made for Remembrance Sunday events but the need for social distancing will limit commemorations.
The SNP, Lib Dems and Green party also backed the campaign.
How to be a poppy star
THE pandemic may have stopped thousands of sellers from hitting the streets — but it doesn’t have to stop you from buying a poppy. MIKE RIDLEY looks at some of the ways you can do your bit for the appeal by going to:
- Fundraise for appeal: Move to Remember and the 11/11 Challenge are among the fundraising suggestions from the appeal itself. Free fundraising packs on the website will give the help and support you will need.
- Poppies in the post: Help make up for the reduced number of volunteer collectors by requesting 20 poppies free of charge from the RBL — and then giving them to friends and family yourself in return for a donation.
- My poppy run 2020: Run, walk or jog any distance, anywhere and at any time. Get family and friends involved to raise cash. And buy a t-shirt to run in and a medal to give to yourself afterwards.
- Visit the poppy shop: There is an extensive range of products from poppy pins and jewellery to clothing, stationery and homeware. All profits fund the Legion’s work in supporting the Armed Forces community.
- Make online donation: Alternatively, you could just visit the British Legion’s website and make a donation. You can choose a one-off payment or set up a regular amount — and no amount is too small.
…OR POP INTO YOUR LOCAL SAINSBURY’S, TESCO, ASDA, ALDI OR MORRISONS AND BUY A POPPY
We can still pay our respects by standing on our doorsteps at 11am on Remembrance Sunday to mark the two-minute silence
Sir Keir Starmer
Veterans minister Johnny Mercer told Times Radio: “It’s a really good opportunity for people to remember in their own homes.”
Mr Johnson has also backed The Sun's own poppy campaign.
The PM said: “While the circumstances in which this year’s Poppy Appeal takes place are unlike anything we have seen before, the need for it is greater than ever.
“Online, by post or in person, let’s all find a way to make our contribution.”
Forces veterans and their families who rely on the British Legion still desperately need our support.
That’s why The Sun, backed by celebs from David Beckham to Captain Tom Moore, is campaigning so hard for the Appeal.
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And we will be putting the poppy on our front page every day from now until Remembrance Day on November 11.
Around 40,000 Legion supporters sell 40million poppies every year. But vendors will be slashed this autumn because many are elderly and vulnerable to the virus.
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Those who brave Covid to sell poppies will be advised to wear a mask, sanitise hands and work behind a table to maximise distancing.
