Due to the restrictions of the present lock down, Hepworth Church is presently closed and the usual service of Remembrance could not be held in the same way this year. But an Act of Remembrance led by Chris Anderson, our Church Elder, was held in the churchyard around the War Memorial and a very large turnout meant we also spilt out onto Church Lane. Social distancing was strictly observed by everyone present and face coverings were also worn.

Chris read out the names of the thirteen Hepworth men who lost their lives fighting in the First World War and he led prayers for all those killed and affected by war in any way. The two minute’s silence was then observed. Veterans wearing headdress and military medals were present. The church wreath was laid by Staff Sergeant Andrew Yorke VR and the wreath from the village was laid by Squadron Leader Jay Alger of the RAF Regiment at RAF Honington.

Thanks go to them and all the Hepworth villagers who attended this poignant and respectful remembrance with especial mention to Chris for organising and leading it, Elaine Allsop for preparing the beautiful display of poppies around the memorial and Ron Bacon for helping mount them. One of the displays bore thirteen poppies to represent each of the Hepworth men recorded on the Memorial.

And, lastly, not forgetting the tractor driver who waited patiently and respectfully in Church Lane during the two minute’s silence until he could move past us – thank you. Hopefully, we will be able to hold the full service in the church next year.

Marjorie MacPherson
Hepworth Church