LARGE crowds gathered at churches and war memorials across the region on Sunday to mark Remembrance Sunday. Hundreds of people attended moving services in Ely, Littleport and Soham as servicemen, past and present, joined with family and friends to remembe

LARGE crowds gathered at churches and war memorials across the region on Sunday to mark Remembrance Sunday.

Hundreds of people attended moving services in Ely, Littleport and Soham as servicemen, past and present, joined with family and friends to remember those who have died in conflicts around the world.

In Ely thousands of poppies fell from the roof of the cathedral as a packed audience joined the mayor for a special service of remembrance.

Mayor Richard Hobbs, said: "The day went exceptionally well, the service was very moving and I have never seen so many people turn out for Remembrance Sunday.

"Ely Cathedral was absolutely packed and I think the day took on a whole new significance when the servicemen from Waterbeach Barracks marched past and were roundly applauded. It was so nice to see that they were well supported.

In Soham, a parade led by the Comrades Band and including representatives from the British Legion, Naval Cadets, Koreans, St John’s Ambulance, Army and Air Force Cadets, scouts and guides marched through the town before heading to the North Albion Church.

Mary Ames from the Royal British Legion, said: “There was around 120 people who marched on the day which was nice to see.

“The parade was led by the band and after a lovely service at the church from Revered Jan Peterson, we headed to the Soham Pavillion for tea.”

In Littleport, members of the Royal British Legion led a march down to St George’s Church where a service of remembrance was held in front of a packed congregation.

Legion member Ron Bidwell, said: “It was very nice to see so many people at the church on Sunday. I think the deaths in Afghanistan have brought remembrance day into everyone’s minds and it is nice to know that people want to come out and support the services.”