Changes to this year’s Manchester Remembrance Sunday commemorations

Manchester’s annual Remembrance Sunday will look very different this year, due to the ongoing impact of the coronavirus pandemic. 

While there will be no parade or public service at the Cenotaph in the city centre, people will be able to watch a pre-recorded service at 11am on Remembrance Sunday 8 November on the Council’s Facebook page. 

People are being urged to undertake their own acts of remembrance at home by observing the two minute silence, displaying an image of a poppy in their window and watching the pre-recorded service. 

People will also be asked to share their wartime memories, photos or videos using hashtag #RemembranceSunday or follow @ManCityCouncil. 

Manchester City Council is urging people not to come to the city centre this Remembrance Sunday.

In accordance to government guidelines, all unnecessary travel should be avoided. 

Residents can download an image of a poppy from the Royal British Legion website to display in their window to remember those who died. You can donate to the poppy appeal as a one off donation or a regular gift.

Manchester Central Library will be lit up red from 8th -11th November to pay tribute to those men and women who died while serving their country. 

People who wish to lay a wreath, are encouraged to do so at home or a local war memorial. 

“It is very sad we are unable to gather together for the city’s annual Remembrance Sunday, but I am sure you will understand that the safety of all those who would usually have taken part or supported the event is our highest priority,” said Manchester’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Tommy Judge.

“I would like to encourage the people of Manchester to take the time to remember, from the safety of their own homes, the ultimate sacrifice paid by those to whom we owe so much. 

“Whilst we can’t gather as a community, we can still remember as a community.   

“We will remember them, wherever we are.” 

Alison Bunn, Royal British Legion area manager for Greater Manchester, said: “Whilst it is deeply disappointing that Remembrance events in Manchester will not take place this year, we understand that the decision has been taken to protect the health and well-being of all involved.  

“The public can all still play a part in ensuring Remembrance Sunday is appropriately marked and the Royal British Legion are encouraging people to participate in their own personal moment of Remembrance, whether that be watching the national Service of Remembrance on television or pausing for the Two Minute Silence at home or on their doorsteps.”