HUNDREDS of students, staff and parents gathered yesterday in an act of remembrance to mark the Armistice centenary at Cirencester College.

The service began at 11am, on Friday, November 9, with the impressive sight of nearly 50 uniformed public service students marching to the college’s own cenotaph erected to honour all of those who have died to secure and protect our freedom.

Principal Jim Grant and Rev Katie Richardson from Cirencester Parish Church led the service.

In a very poignant service Jim spoke of the sacrifice that young people had made who were the same age of the students who had gathered today, 16 to 19 years old.

He also explained the significance of the hymn Jerusalem both from WW1 and today.

Rev Richardson led the congregation in prayer and English teacher John Pitt read a poem by Ivor Gurney called ‘On Somme’.

Student RAF cadet Breanna Lynne and Army cadet Ethan Martin represented the services by laying wreaths on the cenotaph before the playing of the Last Post and the lowering of the British Legion standards from Kemble and district and South Cerney.

Then followed a two-minute silence which was observed with the utmost respect and dignity followed by Reveille.

The service closed with the dedication and blessing by Rev Richardson and everyone singing the National Anthem.

Jim Grant said: “Staff and students have voluntarily joined together now for a number of years on this day.

"Today was a time to reflect on the 100 year centenary and remember the heroes that lost their lives both then and in other conflicts.

"It was impressive to see how well a new generation remembered those in the past who made the ultimate sacrifice to safeguard our freedom.

"We are very proud of them.“