Residents across the district have been praised for making this year’s Armistice Day commemorations one of the best ever.

Remembrance services were held in Halstead and the surrounding villages throughout Sunday as thousands of people paid their respects to the soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the great war.

Halstead Royal British Legion chairman Tony Jones says the attendance at the town’s Remembrance service was one of the highest ever, with an estimated 700 people turning out to the wreath laying ceremony.

He has thanked all who attended and those who supported this year’s commemorations.

He said: “In this centenary year where we are commemorating the end of the Great War and all those who served in it, while not forgetting the Second World War and the many conflicts which have taken place around the world since, we must never forget the sacrifices made by those brave people in order we can live in freedom today.

“As Halstead chairman I would like to extend my thanks to all the dignitaries and the many people from Halstead and surrounding district for turning out to make this years Remembrance Sunday one to remember.

“To see so many people coming to pay their respects and to take part in our acts of remembrance both in the public gardens and at St Andrew’s Church was very rewarding.”

Mr Jones has apologised to those who were unable to hear his speech during the remembrance service in the public gardens.

A “misunderstanding” meant there was no public address system available on the day. Mr Jones is inviting anyone wishing to find out more about the great war to get in touch with the Royal British Legion.

There were further remembrance events taking place elsewhere in the district, with many village churches holding special services.

A board with names of 41 soldiers from Castle Hedingham killed in the Great War was unveiled at the village cemetery. An avenue of trees has also been planted in the village in honour of the soldiers who served.

Hedingham British Legion chairman Malcolm Firman was also impressed with the turnout at the many events taking place and says the final total for this year’s poppy appeal in the district is likely to be the highest ever.

He said: “We have yet to count the money for the poppy appeal but I think we shall break all records. People have been extremely generous this year. “