With the second lockdown underway, this weekend will not see the same response to mark Remembrance Sunday, on November 8, or further services on Wednesday, November 11.
But the chance to give our thanks to those who have served our country has not been put aside, with Hartlepool’s leaders coming up with an alternative way to mark this time of year.
On Friday, November 6, Armed Forces Associations and other veterans joined Hartlepool Borough Council representatives to take part in a short service at the war memorial in Victoria Road.
The noon event saw wreaths laid at the foot of the memorial, with people invited to follow suit on Saturday, November 7, with another held at the Headland War Memorial, with each shared online by the council.
Both monuments will be lit in red on Remembrance Day by the authority.
It also plans to raise three Union Flags on Wednesday and they will remain on display until Friday, November 13.
Remembrance crosses for Hartlepool soldiers who lost their lives have also been planted in Victory Square and an online Book of Remembrance will be available to sign at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/remembrance2020.
1. Paying respects
The wreath laying ceremony was held on Friday, November 6, in Victory Square ahead of Remembrance Sunday. Photo: Frank Reid
2. Taking a pause to reflect
A number of people stopped to show their respects during the low-key service, which was held as an alternative to the usual Remembrance Sunday event. Photo: Frank Reid
3. Veterans unite for event
This gentleman was one of a number of veterans who showed their support for the event. Photo: Frank Reid
4. Joining in from a distance
People kept to social distancing rules as they took a moment to watch the service. Photo: Frank Reid