“It’s important to be here today because this day only happens once a year and we must remember all the people who died for us” - the words of nine-year-old cub scout Maya Patel at Harold Hill’s Remembrance Day service.

She was one of many members of the 3rd Harold Hill Scouts taking part in the parade and service at the war memorial in Hilldene Avenue this morning, Sunday, November 12.

The event began with a parade from St George’s Church up Farnham Road to the war memorial in Hilldene Avenue.

The service was led by St George’s parish priest the Rev Shaun Moore who said: “The Great War was supposed to be the war to end all wards. That has not happened. We need to commit ourselves to work towards a future where young men, women and children are not sacrificed.”

Cllr Denis O’Flynn reminded the assembled crowds that not only those who fought in war should be remembered but also the firefighters and police who dealt with the aftermath of bombing campaigns during the Second World War, and the 35,000 who died on Merchant Navy ships getting supplies through.

He said: “Their sacrifice will always be remembered.”

He then recited the verse of the poem The Fallen:

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them.”

Wrapped up against the chill wind, the crowds then fell silent for two minutes remembering all those who have fought in all conflicts, those who died and those who were injured.

Wreaths were laid by former mayor of Havering Cllr Brian Eagling on behalf of the current mayor Cllr Linda van den Hende; Ian Libby on behalf of Harold Wood branch of the Royal British Legion, the Scouts, St John Ambulance cadets and others.

They then paraded back to St George’s Church, led by a bagpipe player thanks to a contribution from Harold Wood Funeral Services.

Cllr Eagling said: “It’s wonderful to see so many children who came out to show their support for something like this.”