Key Points
- Hackney held its Remembrance Sunday parade and church service on Sunday, November 9, 2025, to honour servicemen, women, and civilians who died in world wars and later conflicts.
- The parade began at 9:30 am from Hackney Town Hall, proceeding to St John at Hackney Church for a 10 am Service of Remembrance.
- Hackney’s representative deputy lieutenant, Stephen Howlett DL CBE, led the parade, including civic dignitaries, ex-service personnel, 3 Military Intelligence Battalion members, reserve forces, cadets, and youth organisations.
- Mayor of Hackney Caroline Woodley emphasised community unity and gratitude for veterans and active service personnel.
- The wreath-laying ceremony commenced at the Cenotaph at 10:40 am, featuring a two-minute silence and a lone bugler playing The Last Post.
- Deputy Lieutenant Stephen Howlett highlighted the importance of remembrance in teaching the value of peace.
- The parade concluded with wreaths laid at the borough’s war memorial in Town Hall Square.
- Councillor Sharon Patrick, Speaker of Hackney, paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in wars and conflicts.
- Road closures and police support were arranged for safe parade movement.
- The event precedes the 85th anniversary of Remembrance Day on November 11, marked nationally with a one-minute silence at 11 am.
What was the significance of Hackney’s Remembrance Sunday parade?
As reported by the official Hackney Council website, Hackney’s Remembrance Sunday parade and church service took place on Sunday, November 9, 2025, aiming to honour servicemen, women, and civilians lost in the two World Wars and subsequent conflicts. The event is a solemn annual tradition in Hackney, reflecting the broader national act of remembrance observed across the UK. It provides an opportunity for the local community to come together in respectful commemoration of sacrifice and service.
Who led the Remembrance Sunday parade in Hackney?
According to Hackney Council coverage, the parade was led by Hackney’s representative deputy lieutenant, Stephen Howlett DL CBE. His leadership was central in the organisation of the procession, which included an array of participants such as civic dignitaries, ex-service personnel, members of the 3 Military Intelligence Battalion, reserve forces, cadets, and local youth organisations. The event underscores the borough’s commitment to honouring both historical and contemporary military service.
What was the schedule and route of the parade?
Hackney’s procession began at 9:30 am from Hackney Town Hall. The parade then made its way to St John at Hackney Church for the 10 am Service of Remembrance. Following the church service, at 10:40 am, a wreath-laying ceremony occurred at the Cenotaph, complemented by a two-minute silence and a performance of The Last Post by a lone bugler. The commemorative activities concluded with the parade returning to Town Hall Square at approximately 11:30 am, where additional wreaths were laid at the borough’s war memorial.
What did Hackney’s Mayor Caroline Woodley say about Remembrance Sunday?
Mayor Caroline Woodley expressed the importance of the event for the community, stating,
“Remembrance Sunday is an opportunity for our whole community to come together and reflect on the immense sacrifices made by so many. It’s a chance to honour the courage of veterans as well as today’s service people who continue to serve with dedication and compassion. Hackney stands united in gratitude and remembrance.”
Her statement highlights the borough’s respectful recognition of past and present military commitments.
How did Stephen Howlett describe the importance of Remembrance Day?
Stephen Howlett DL CBE said,
“Remembrance Day is a moment to honour those who have served our country and reflect on the loss and tragedy of war. By remembering the past, we help future generations understand the value of peace.”
His remarks emphasise how such ceremonies not only commemorate sacrifice but also serve as lessons promoting peace for future generations.
What was included in the wreath-laying ceremony and how was The Last Post performed?
Following the Service of Remembrance, the wreath-laying ceremony took place at the Cenotaph at 10:40 am. Participants observed a two-minute silence to solemnly honour the fallen. The ceremony featured the poignant performance of The Last Post by a lone bugler, which symbolises the final call and stands as a powerful tribute to deceased servicemen and women. This was reported as part of the official Hackney Remembrance Sunday coverage.
What role did Councillor Sharon Patrick play, and what did she say?
Councillor Sharon Patrick, Speaker of Hackney, took part in the ceremony and reflected on its significance, saying,
“The ceremony reminds us of the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during the world wars and other conflicts. It is important that we never forget.”
Her comments underline the continuing civic responsibility to remember the contributions and sacrifices of military personnel across all conflicts.
Were there any logistical arrangements for the event?
To ensure the safety and smooth operation of the parade, Hackney Council implemented short rolling road closures in Mare Street and Lower Clapton Road, lasting approximately 10-15 minutes between 9:30–9:45 am and again between 11:15–11:30 am. Reading Lane was closed from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. Police and security personnel were present to support these arrangements. These precautions highlight the council’s commitment to public safety during the event.
How does Remembrance Sunday fit within the wider national context?
Remembrance Sunday in Hackney aligns with the nationwide observance, which commemorates those who lost their lives in conflicts, particularly the two world wars. The event precedes the 85th anniversary of Remembrance Day on November 11, 2025, when a one-minute silence is held across the UK at 11 am to mark the official armistice anniversary of the First World War. National ceremonies include the Cenotaph Service in London, where wreaths are laid by members of the royal family, political representatives, and military organisations.
