ROYSTON remembered on Sunday when the service to commemorate the fallen troops of the British Armed Forces took place.

The service was excellently attended by local residents that turned out to pay their respect for those who have given their lives for their country in battle.

Chairman of trustees of the Royston branch of the Royal British Legion Chris Murphy said: “The day went very well. The weather was kind to us and we had a great turn out. As usual it was tremendously attended, with several hundred people including servicemen from Bassingbourn Barracks

“The services and speeches were well observed and very moving, and I would like to take the opportunity to thank the people of Royston for coming out and supporting it as they do every year, and for their support for the poppy appeal.”

Proceedings included a service from Rev Les Harman of Royston Parish Church, a reading from Padre Albert Jackson, an exhortation reading from Mr Murphy and a salute from Royston town mayor councillor Martin Beaver, the commanding officer of Bassingbourn Barracks and The Queen’s representative the deputy lord lieutenant.

Cllr Beaver said: “It was, as ever, a very moving ceremony. It’s great how so many people from Royston come out to appreciate the march.

“Both sides of the street were packed, which shows the understanding of how special this day is. I always find it very emotional.”

Since last Remembrance Sunday, 11 soldiers trained at Bassingbourn Barracks have died, with several others incurring life changing injuries.

Cllr Beaver’s auction took place at the Royston British Legion’s headquarters after the service, and raised �810 for the mayor’s charities the Bobby Moore Cancer Fund and the Royal British Legion.

Items sold included a signed Bobby Moore shirt, a bat signed by the England cricket team, a signed England football shirt and several books.

“We raised more than I could have possibly hoped for,” said Cllr Beaver.

On Thursday November 11, wreaths were laid by Cllr Beaver and Chris Murphy at the war memorial in Melbourn Street and the American memorial in Priory Gardens.

Melbourn Street was closed off as around a hundred people attended and observed a minute’s silence.