THOUSANDS of people turned out to honour the fallen in remembrance services across the region on Remembrance Sunday. With similar services taking place around the country, wreaths were laid at Littleport, Soham and Ely and also many of the surrounding vil

THOUSANDS of people turned out to honour the fallen in remembrance services across the region on Remembrance Sunday.

With similar services taking place around the country, wreaths were laid at Littleport, Soham and Ely and also many of the surrounding villages in East Cambs in memory of those who gave their lives in both world wars and other more recent conflicts.

The procession in Soham this year was joined by three ex-servicemen from Soham's twin town of Andrézieux-Bouthéon in Southern France. Jean-Louis Boniteau, president of the Veteran's Association, was joined by André Patriniak and Jean Peigne in parading with their British counterparts and laying wreaths at the Soham War Memorial.

The procession was also joined by local Scouts, Guides and members of St John Ambulance who joined the veterans in their parade before heading to St Andrew's Church for a service and reception.

Mary Ames from The Royal British Legion in Soham said, "It was a really lovely day, the church was packed full of people and all the events went off without any problems."

In Littleport, veterans and ex-servicemen alike paraded through the main street and down to St George's Church before laying wreaths at the War Memorial. This was followed by a service of remembrance held later that evening at Littleport Leisure Centre.

Ron Bidwell of the Littleport British Legion said: We had a nice service at the church and followed it up with an enjoyable event in the evening. I think it was a good day all round."

In Ely, a service was held at the cathedral before several local dignitaries, including mayor Sheila Friend-Smith and chairman of the district council, Peter Cresswell laid wreaths at the memorial on the Market Square.

Members of both all three legions will also be holding small wreath laying ceremonies on Tuesday morning - Armistice Day - to mark the symbolic end of hostilities in World War One.