Dudley to fall silent for fallen heroes

A programme of commemorative events will take place in Dudley town centre to honour the service and sacrifice of the nation’s armed force, alongside community-led services and parades across the borough,

The council-led Remembrance Sunday service will be held at the cenotaph in Ednam Road on Sunday 8 November.

Current and former service personnel, families of the fallen and community groups will parade from Vicar Street at approximately 10.30am, making their way through the town centre with police horses also present, before arriving at the cenotaph for the service, which begins at 10.45am.

Road closures will be in place on the day, including Priory Road, Ednam Road, New Street, Tower Street, Priory Street, Stone Street, St James’s Road, Parsons Street, Market Place, High Street, Wolverhampton Street, Union Street and Vicar Street.

The borough will then mark Armistice Day on Wednesday 11 November with a service at the First World War Clock Tower Memorial in Priory Street.

Veterans will join the Mayor of Dudley, councillors, council staff, and members of the public from 10.55am for the laying of wreaths and the traditional two-minute silence. Priory Street will be closed for the service, with signed diversion routes in place.

The event will be transmitted live by Black Country Radio from 10am on 92.2 & 102.5 FM also on DAB and smart devices.

As part of the borough’s commemorations, a striking cascade of hand-crafted poppies created by the Dudley Remembers Group is being displayed at Dudley Council House.

Community-organised remembrance events are set to take place across the borough. Residents are encouraged to check local arrangements in advance.

Motorists should allow extra time for journeys on Remembrance Sunday due to road closures and diversions. Parking arrangements in some locations, including Mary Stevens Park, may be altered to accommodate safety measures. People requiring accessible parking are advised to contact local organisers ahead of events.

Residents are also able to place a poppy in the Cross of Remembrance in Dudley Market Place over the next few weeks, creating a lasting tribute to those who gave their lives in service to their country.

Councillor Pete Lowe, Mayor of Dudley, said:

"This weekend and next week we will fall silent as we remember the courage, sacrifice and dedication of the men and women who have served our country, and those who continue to do so today.

"As Mayor of Dudley, I am honoured to pay my own tribute and thanks to those who give so much in service and to remember those who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy.

“We know many residents will want to join us the commemorative events and to take a moment to remember all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

“The poppy displays at Dudley Council House and in the Market Place provide a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of their service and offer everyone the chance to pay their own respects."

Chief Superintendent Michelle Davies, local commander for Dudley Police, added:

“It is important that we pause to reflect on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, to honour those who have served our country and to remember those killed in conflict.

“Representatives from West Midlands Police will be attending local civic remembrance ceremonies across the whole region, and many officers and staff will be attending events in personal and private capacities.

“I’m delighted to have our Mounted Unit in attendance at Dudley’s remembrance event, to represent the force alongside Dudley Police and to pay their respects for the first time since their reintroduction last December.”