AN ESTIMATED 3,500 people turned out to the Remembrance Sunday service in Barnsley Town Centre in what is thought to be the biggest turnout in at least six years.
Thousands more paid tribute to the fallen in ceremonies across the borough on Sunday which fell exactly 100 years since the signing of the Armistice which brought an end to the First World War.
Wet weather poignantly gave way to a brief sunny spell at around 11am.
Mayor of Barnsley Coun Steve Green was visibly moved as he observed the Act of Remem-brance at the war memorial in front of the town hall.
He said: “It was wonderful to see so many Barnsley residents come together on Sunday to honour the centenary of the end of the First World War, and pay tribute to the servicemen who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
“It was a beautiful service to remember those who serve their country.
“A huge thank you to all those who braved the wet weather to honour this special day.”
Veterans, veteran associations, cadets and uniformed groups all took part in a colourful parade which followed a service which had included hymns bolstered for the first time by Barnsley Singers, the adult sister choir to Barnsley Youth Choir. Music was provided by Barnsley Metropolitan Band.
Remembrance Sunday services have always been well-attended in Barnsley and there was a surge in attendance following the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, but the council’s events team believes the attendance was the highest for six years.
