WITH medals glinting in the sun, veterans and those set to follow in their footsteps marched proudly to Darlington’s cenotaph this morning (Sunday).

Hundreds gathered in the autumn sun to watch the parade wind its way from the Holy Trinity Church to the cenotaph at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Cadets – some sporting medals belonging to their late parents – marched in step with representatives from the Armed Forces as dignitaries from across the town joined them to pay respect to those lost in conflict.

Poignant readings were delivered to the gathered crowds before wreaths were laid at the foot of the cenotaph by the mayor and mayoress of Darlington as well as the town’s MP Jenny Chapman, regiments and organisations from across the town.

An emotive remembrance service held later in the day saw the Bishop of Durham dedicate a memorial plaque and roll of honour at St John’s Church.

The artefacts were lovingly restored by churchgoer Ian Wood who recently unearthed them from the church’s bell tower, where they had languished for more than 40 years.

The memorials – which once held pride of place at the now demolished St John’s School – list the names of former pupils and staff who served and perished during WWI.

First unveiled in a 1923 ceremony, the boards do not include ranks – because then-headmaster J Broughton said: "Don’t put the men’s ranks on the memorial because they’re all my lads."

Prior to dedicating the artefacts, which include hundreds of names associated with just one school, the Bishop of Durham, Rt Rev Paul Butler said: “What’s important is that for future generations there names are there displayed, which means we all stop and think about the sacrifices people have made – that should inspire us to live now in ways that show love and care for others.

“A visible sign will keep them in people’s consciences all of the time rather than just once a year and that’s quite important.

“They will be there week in, week out and people tend to stop and look at them more closely at times like this but they’re there as a permanent reminder.

“It’s not just about remembering once a year, it’s about remembering every day of our lives.”