The Armistice Day ceremony on Friday (11) will be extended to allow reflection on the awful events of Wednesday’s tragic tram incident at Sandilands.
As in past years, the small ceremony will take place with a two-minute silence at 11am at the cenotaph in Katharine Street.
Attended by the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Wayne Trakas-Lawlor, the traditional ceremony will mark the end of World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.
This year’s ceremony, however, takes on special significance as it will include a chance to remember Wednesday’s incident.
Toward the end of the ceremony, a bugler will sound Reveille and the Mayor will ask all in attendance to observe an additional minute’s silence as a sign of respect for those who lost their lives.
The British Legion has invited the borough commanders of both the London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police, and there will also be a fire tender in attendance, with the crew on parade in Katharine Street.
The borough’s book of condolence is available for all to sign in the Braithwaite Hall.
Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the council
“The events of Wednesday were desperately sad, and everybody in Croydon will have been affected by the news.
“Since its introduction, the tram system has been accepted by the people of the borough, and beyond, as a safe, reliable means of transport, serving millions every year. For this to happen is almost unbelievable.
“It’s entirely fitting that those who lost their lives on Wednesday are remembered at Croydon’s main Armistice Day ceremony and I hope as many people as possible come along to Katharine Street on Friday to mark their respect.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the British Legion for the huge part it’s played in organising this, and past years’, events.”
The Armistice Day ceremony will be followed, on Sunday (13), by the annual Civic Service of Remembrance to pay tribute to the sacrifices of military and service personnel in conflicts past and present.
The service, held in conjunction with local branches of the Royal British Legion, will take place at Croydon Minster at 11am, conducted by the Bishop of Croydon, the Rt Revd Jonathan Clark.
Members of the public are welcome to attend and must be seated by 10.45am. Following the service, there will be a wreath-laying ceremony at the Katharine Street cenotaph at 12.30pm, led by the Mayor of Croydon.
