HAVING watched the Festival of Remembrance and the Cenotaph Parade, as well as attending some Remembrance events, and seeing all the media reports of the tremendous Remembrance efforts made by schools and other organisations all over the country, it’s heart-warming to see that despite all the negativity surrounding the current rash of knife-crime and other criminal activities, there is still an immense amount of pride in our country and gratitude for our freedom which was hard earned by those who served and the many who fell.

Long may this nationalistic pride continue through future generations and long may this precious country of ours thrive.

.

IAN ROBINSON

Kensington Road, Southend

.

...WITH so much negative news of late, I felt it necessary to highlight a couple of positive events I have just attended in and around the town.

Firstly there was the London Southend Poppy Garden Dedication - a celebration to the centenary of the World War One Armistice.

Visitors and guests were also able to view the Kingsdown School Poppy Tapestry and view the Wall Of Remembrance in the airport terminal building.

Secondly a very successful dining event was held again this year at the Roslin Hotel, in support of HARP, who do a wonderful job in supporting and caring for the homeless in our town.

Well done to the Roslin for their excellent hosting and to the organisers for a brilliant evening.

.

Councillor STEVE BUCKLEY

St Laurence Ward

Borman Close, Eastwood