HUNDREDS of servicemen and women have taken part in one of the region’s largest Remembrance Day parades in Durham.

The streets of the city were lined with thousands of people who applauded as some of the nation’s serving members of the armed forces went on parade.

They were joined by veterans, members of the emergency services and younger members of the community to pay tribute to the men and women who have died while serving the country.

Former firefighter Arthur Lockyear, who organises the annual event, said: “I think it’s the biggest one we’ve had yet.

The Northern Echo:

“It’s marvellous to see the young guys getting applauded from the crowd. There are veterans here who were in Iraq and Afghanistan and it’s good they get the recognition they deserve.

“I was very proud as a former firefighter to march with firefighters from all over the UK."

He added: "The important thing is for people to turn out and pay respect. That’s what matters. It doesn’t matter whether that’s here, or in Whitehall or at Seaham harbour.”

The parade was led by the ‘D’ Company 8th Battalion the Rifles, successors to the Durham Light Infantry, with the renowned Band and Bugles of Durham Army Cadet Force.

The Northern Echo:

Pipers and drummers from the Royal Dragoon Guards also took part.

In the Market Place, the salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant for County Durham Sue Snowdon, Mayor of Durham, Councillor Katie Corrigan and Air Vice-Marshal Warren James CBE.

It is now a century since the first services were held a year after the guns fell silent on the Western Front to remember those who had made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Northern Echo:

The parade followed a service at Durham Cathedral, which last night hosted its annual Festival of Remembrance – a concert to honour those who have died in conflict.