BBC DEVON

Devon Remembrance Sunday services honour armed forces

Chloe Parkman November 9, 2025

Johnny Rutherford/BBC Personnel from the armed forces gathered around a cenotaph in Exeter. They have their hands behind their back. Trees in autumnal colours are seen in the background on a cloudy day. — A service was held at the at the war memorial in Northernhay Gardens in Exeter

Services are taking place across the region to mark Remembrance Sunday.

The Bishop of Plymouth, the Rt Revd James Grier, led this year’s service on Plymouth Hoe, which began with a two-minute silence at the Royal Naval Memorial at 11:00 GMT.

“War and conflict today weighs heavy and looms close, especially for those who offer our lives in our armed services,” he told the service. “Now, just as 80 years ago, we need peacemakers – we need to pull together rather than apart.”

A service was also held at the war memorial in Northernhay Gardens in Exeter.

A military band arrives at the service in Exeter

Johnny Rutherford/BBC A parade of band members is seen walking up a path. Trees in autumnal colours line the path. — A military band arrives at the service in Exeter

In Plymouth, the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, laid a wreath, followed by the lord mayor, the naval base commander and other representatives of the armed forces, Plymouth City Council said.

The Lord Mayor, councillor Kathy Watkin, said: “Remembrance Sunday is such an important occasion for Plymouth, bringing us all together each year to commemorate the service, bravery and sacrifice of those who have given their lives for our country.

“Their courage and sacrifice continue to inspire us and remind us of the enduring importance of remembrance and a united hope for a peaceful tomorrow.”

Johnny Rutherford/BBC A man in a military uniform plays the bugle. He is standing up straight. Behind him is a stone structure. — The bugle is played by Corp Ian Chave

Crowds gathered on Plymouth Hoe for Remembrance Sunday commemorations

Plymouth City Council Members of the navy are seen marching down Plymouth Hoe. They are in black uniforms with white hats and holding a gun on their shoulders. They are marching between crowds. — Crowds gathered on Plymouth Hoe for Remembrance Sunday commemorations

Representatives of the armed forces arrived at the war memorial in Exeter from 10:00.

“To commemorate this occasion, the city war memorial has been adorned with panels of poppies,” the council said.

A county service will also be held in Exeter Cathedral at 16:00 GMT. Wreaths will be passed to the Dean of Exeter during the service before being laid at the war memorial on Cathedral Green.

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