Message from the Mayor of Oldham’s Office.
These plans are subject to change at any time, in line with changing government advice and regulations.
Traditionally, the Council arranges seven civic services for Remembrance Sunday across the Borough. Sadly, and due to these unprecedented times, the Council has had to review the arrangements for the above, in line with the COVID-19 restrictions.
It has been agreed, in consultation with the local branches of Royal British Legion, that small gatherings of no more than six people on Remembrance Sunday at the following district areas:
- Oldham
- Lees
- Royton
- Chadderton
- Crompton
- Failsworth
- St Chad’s Uppermill
The Mayor will be in attendance at Oldham’s Cenotaph and will be laying a wreath on behalf of the people of Oldham.
Attendance at the services will be limited within government guidelines and will be by invitation only from the Royal British Legion.
Unfortunately, it has been necessary to cancel all other parades across the Borough.
There will however be the opportunity to lay wreaths during the day, and up to Armistice Day at Cenotaphs across the Borough, subject to compliance with social distancing.
Marshals will be in place during busy periods to offer advice and guidance. Wreaths can be laid throughout the day rather that at 11am to reduce the risks associated with the normal gatherings that would take place in each area.
Many of you will be understandably disappointed by the cancellation of the parades and services, but as a Council it is our duty first and foremost to protect the health of our people and to do so in line with relevant laws and government guidance.
We have arranged for each individual civic services to be filmed live on the Council’s website www.oldham.gov.uk which will allow you to watch your local service.
Regarding Cenotaphs and Church Services that are not managed by the Council, you should contact your local Church to ascertain what can be arranged locally under the current COVID-19 restrictions, socially distanced church services are likely the safest option at the moment.
Any arrangements in these areas will not be managed by the Council and compliance with the COVID-19 regulations is essential when making any plans.
I trust the above clarifies Council plans for marking Remembrance Sunday this year.
Hi Howard,
Am I reading this right. Just 6 people will be allowed at the Shaw war Memorial on Remembrance Sunday! If it is correct I am quite frankly amazed at this decision when you can have numerous people outside in local parks etc. What’s the difference?
The rules are contradictory. There are also rules and guidance. The guidance says no socialising outside.
https://www.oldham.gov.uk/coronavirus
At the end of the day it is the RBL call and this is what they have decided I assume based upon advice from the National Body.
Best wishes and stay safe.
Can I go to rember my friend and family on Sunday 8 th of November
If I have understood it correctly there will be opportunities for individuals to remember loved ones all over the weekend and in the run up to 11 November. What there will not be is a service or mass gathering on the Sunday as we have done in the past. This is what the Royal British Legion have decided.
Hi
So if my husband and I go and stand at a distance from the Chadderton or Royton Monument Service will we be moved by officials.
I doubt it as there will be no service or ‘officials’ to do so.