The service remembered all those who have lost their lives to conflict and paid special tribute to the service men and women of the Windrush Generation

Memorial crosses with red poppies — Photo by Chris Sansbury on Unsplash

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, chair of the London Assembly, Andrew Boff AM, and chair of the City Hall Branch of the Royal British Legion, Len Duvall OBE AM, on Friday joined assembly members, representatives of the armed forces community, faith leaders and other special guests for City Hall’s Remembrance Service.

The Rt Revd Lynne Cullens, Bishop of Barking, led the annual service and delivered the opening address. Sikh, Hindu, Christian, Jewish and Muslim faith leaders also spoke to the congregation and gave a series of readings, prayers and hymns. Music was provided by the London International Gospel choir.

To mark the 75^th anniversary of the HMT Empire Windrush arriving in Britain, the high commissioner for Jamaica, H. E. Alexander Williams, addressed the congregation and read an extract from a letter from Lance Corporal A.L. Henry, who served in the British West Indies Regiment. A series of profiles of British service personnel and veterans who were, or are, descendants of the Windrush generation was exhibited in London’s Living Room in City Hall to commemorate their immense contribution to the Armed Forces.

Senior representatives from the Metropolitan Police Service, Greater London Lieutenancy, Transport for London, London Ambulance Service, British Red Cross, London Assembly, Royal British Legion, Armed Forces, St Johns Ambulance and others participated in the wreath laying ceremony.

The service was also attended by members of the Windrush Museum, the British West Indian Heritage Trust, the West Indian Association of Service Personnel, and Greater London Authority staff.

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “City Hall’s annual Remembrance service brings together people of all backgrounds and beliefs to pay tribute to those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

“Together, we remember all those who have lost their lives in conflict and reflect upon the sacrifices of those who serve our country, I am proud to honour their lasting legacy.

“This year we also pay special tribute to the service men and women from the Windrush Generation who have helped to make our nation what it is today. Our city’s diversity is our greatest strength and by collectively celebrating our hard won peace, we are building a better London for all.”

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