BARNSLEY’S Remembrance Sunday event will be virtual with council leader Sir Steve Houghton urging residents to mark the occasion safely from home on November 8.
Covid-19 restrictions mean there can be no parades, and while wreaths can be laid at war memorials, it must be done in a socially-distanced way ahead of November 11.
Sir Steve said: “Remembrance Day is a significant and popular event in the borough as we pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
“Due to the restrictions that are in place as a result of the pandemic, we’ve made the difficult decision to mark Remembrance Sunday in a different way this year.
“Given that it is a hugely supported occasion in Barnsley, we understand that this is disappointing.
“However, the safety of our residents is our first priority, especially as our usual events are attended by a large number of elderly veterans and other groups who are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus.
“As we remember the fallen, we must remember that we are fighting our own battle with coronavirus.
“We’re urging people commemorate the day safely by laying wreaths in advance of Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day to avoid gatherings and minimise the spread of infection.
“We’re currently developing a virtual Remembrance Sunday event which will broadcast on our social media channels. We’re doing this so that you can mark the occasion safely from home.
“It is our promise that despite these unusual circumstances, we will remember them.”
