Second World War veterans attend Battle of Britain Commemoration at County Hall

Norfolk County Council hosted a group of Second World War veterans as part of a ceremony to commemorate the Battle of Britain.

The event took place at County Hall on Friday 13 September, hosted by Norfolk County Council Chairman, Councillor Stuart Dark MBE and was attended by members of the Armed Forces and leaders from across the county.

The veterans, with an average age of 100, were led into the ceremony by the next generation of Cadets as part of the opening parade. Music accompaniment was provided by the Norwich City Concert Band.

Councillor Stuart Dark MBE, Norfolk County Council Chairman, said:  

"We are very honoured this year to have four World War Two RAF veterans from Norfolk leading our parade. They all endured hardships and loss we can only imagine - we owe them, their comrades and their generation so very much. 

"Norfolk has, I believe, a unique connection to the Battle of Britain and the armed forces. It is important that we keep this history at the front of our minds today.  My chosen theme for the year is 'celebrating volunteers' and we have three of the brilliant group's here keeping these RAF bases and crews memory alive in RAF Air Defence Radar Museum, New Farm Aviation Heritage Museum and The Spirit of Coltishall."

Prayers were led by Norfolk County Council Chaplain, The Revd. Albert Cadmore who spoke of the heroes who fell during Britain's WW2 aerial battles. 

The Airman's Prayer was read by Group Captain Frederick Wigglesworth, Station Commander at RAF Marham.

Extracts from speeches by Sir Winston Churchill to The House of Commons were recited by HM Lord-Lieutenant, Lady Dannatt MBE.

Wreaths were laid ahead of the playing of the last post and a minute silence to honour those we have lost.

The service was concluded with the playing of the National Anthem.