Marsden Remembrance Day Parade
Time of year: November
Lead contacts: Phil Pursey and the Marsden British Legion
Key information
Remembrance Sunday holds a special place in the heart of Marsden. It is a day when the village comes together to honour those who served, to reflect on the cost of conflict and to stand united in gratitude. At the centre of these commemorations is the Marsden Silver Prize Band.
The morning begins at the Royal British Legion where the band gathers with veterans, the Scouts, local community groups and often the Lord Lieutenant of Yorkshire. Together they form a parade that moves through the village with a quiet sense of purpose. The band leads the way, their music guiding the procession towards the Marsden Cenotaph. Residents line the streets, young and old standing side by side, creating a shared moment of remembrance that reflects the strength of the community.
At the Cenotaph, the band plays a traditional hymn that helps set a tone of reflection and respect. The Marsden branch of the Royal British Legion then lead the wreath laying, followed by many wreaths laid by community groups. As the clock strikes 11am the Last Post is performed by one of the band cornet players, the village falls into a deep and moving 2 minute silence. This stillness is one of the most powerful moments of the day. When Reveille sounds, it lifts the gathering gently back into the present, reminding everyone of the resilience and hope that follow remembrance.
After the service at the Cenotaph the band leads the parade to St Bartholomew’s Church. Inside the church, they play throughout the full Remembrance Service, supporting hymns and contributing a piece of reflection music which brings an atmosphere that is both solemn and uplifting. The service brings together families, long standing residents, newcomers and visitors, all united in a shared act of reflection. When the service concludes, the band once again takes to the street and marches back through the village towards the Band Room and the Royal British Legion.
Profile written by Kathleen Coton, Band Manager of the Marsden Silver Prize Brass Band
Contact information
Phone number: N/A
Email: mrblmarsden@gmail.com
Website: N/A
Social media: www.facebook.com/MarsdenRBL/
