The annual event, which this year takes place on Sunday 12th November, will see more than 1,000 people, including both civic and military representatives, gather at the cathedral in solemn reflection on the loss of life of brave servicemen and women and how their sacrifices helped to shape the world today.

Commencing at 10am with a formal parade through the streets around the Cathedral, the service will include a series of hymns, moments of prayer, readings from Holy scripture and a sermon by the Very Reverend Adrian Dorber, Dean of Lichfield, on the importance of remembrance. “The tradition of remembrance at Lichfield Cathedral dates back to the early 1920s in the aftermath of the First World War,” explains the Dean. “At a similar time, a memorial chapel to those who lost their lives in the conflict was dedicated at the cathedral. “The services that we have held ever since in Lichfield act as a symbol of our nation’s grief at the loss of two generations during the First and Second World Wars and is an opportunity for us to come together to remember and honour these sacrifices. “It is not only a chance for us to look back at our past, but also to look to the future and consider how we can work together to promote peace, justice and harmony, and create a better world for future generations.”

At 10.50am, the service will continue in the War Memorial Garden where the National Silence will be observed at 11am. Just after 11am the Eucharist will be celebrated in the Cathedral, whilst the Civic Dignitaries and representatives of the British Legion and the Armed Services will process to the City’s Guildhall.

The Dean continues: “This years’ service will be especially poignant given that 2017 marks the centennial of the Battle of Passchendaele, which caused the death and suffering of many thousands of troops, and we will be honouring those heroes in particular. “I would encourage the people of Lichfield to come out on the day and pay their respects to our courageous servicemen and women for all that they have done for us.”

For more information about the Remembrance Sunday service, call 01543 306100.