Here I am with a few words of thanks on behalf of Haddington Community Council to all those who came out to support Haddington’s Remembrance Day service and parade.

Firstly to the Rev Jennifer Macrae, ably assisted by the Rev Canon Anne Dyer and the Rev John Vischer for their moving services both at the wreath laying and in the church.

To the church choir and choristers who performed the most appropriate music for the occasion.

We were privileged to have as our guest the Lord Lieutenant Michael Williams, accompanied by Cadet Corporal John McFarlane, who stayed with us until the candle lighting service in the Corn Exchange.

Also to Councillor Tom Trotter and MSP Iain Gray.

No parade can take place without all the organisations that turn out and walk the route and attend the service.

We had representatives from the following groups: Royal British Legion, East Lothian Army Cadets, Knox Academy, Rotary Club, Scouts, Cubs, Guides, Girls Brigade, the fire officers and the Masons.

All of those groups represented had an age range from a six-year-old Beaver through to some who were in their 80s who were all able to walk through Haddington on a nice, dry mild morning, led by the resounding music played by Haddington Pipe Band. Liz McDougal joined the parade and laid a wreath on behalf of the pipe band.

The safety of those marching was in the capable hands of the police officers who were there to make sure the traffic stopped to allow the march to proceed.

Our thanks must go to our parade marshal Sandy McKinnon, who I think I am allowed to say shouts his commands at us and keeps us all on the right track with his good humour and perseverance.

My final thanks go to the Knox Academy pupils for their help with serving the refreshments, to the Guides who helped to clear up, to Betty and Margaret for helping at the preparing stage and of course the washing up afterwards, and lastly to John and Paul for preparing and executing the section with the artistic display of the 130 candles.

And a special thanks to Harold O’Neil for once again turning out with his chest regaled with medals and, as always, with a big smile for everyone.

He is one of life’s survivors of the war, who can tell us a few tales about how life was in those days.

Also to Jack Tully Jackson, who joined us this year in his wheelchair.

My sincere thanks to everyone who came along to make the Remembrance Day event rather a special one as we remember those who have given their lives so that we are able to walk freely along the street.

Also, someone dropped an HM Armed Forces Veteran badge and if they get in touch with me I can return it to the owner.

Emily Armatage Haddington Community Council