HUNDREDS of people fell silent across Notts yesterday to pay their respects to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice fighting for their country.See all the photos from Nottingham's ceremony here
Crowds slowly made their way along Victoria Embankment towards the war memorial where a ceremony was conducted by the Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, the Right Reverend Paul Butler.
Following the solitary blast of the Last Post, people bowed their heads and paused for thought for two minutes to remember the war dead.
The Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Leon Unczur, was among those laying wreaths and the Lord Lieutenant of Notts, Sir John Peace, took the salute at the march past.
Among those in the crowds pausing for reflection was 22-year-old Simon Barnes from Clifton.
He said: "It's important that people realise the sacrifice the Armed Forces have made for this country.
"A couple of my friends from school are in the Army now and you just hope they come back safe and well.
"Not a lot of people would have the courage to do what they are doing.
"Days like this aren't just about world wars in the past. They are also about what's happening now."
His dad, 57-year-old Peter, said: "We remember them because things would be a lot different if it wasn't for their bravery.
"It's good to see so many people coming out to pay their respects – I've come down every year since I was small and it's the busiest I have seen it for a long time."
And nine-year-old Jon Taylor, of Musters Road, West Bridgford, said: "I've learnt about the war at school and it's important to remember what the soldiers did."
Similar scenes of respect took place elsewhere, with the silence held at war memorials in Beeston, Kirkby-in-Ashfield and many other towns and villages. Meanwhile, in the city, a gunshot fired by members of the 307 Battery South Notts Hussars marked the start of the two-minute silence in Old Market Square.
Tears marked many cheeks as people paused to remember.
Following the reflection, came the recognition.
The city's dignitaries came to the Council House to watch the parade of the Armed Forces and cheers and applause greeted soldiers and musicians as they marched by.
Val Lami, of Hartness Road, Clifton, said: "I just think its so important to remember those that gave their lives for us."
The 54-year-old said: "They made the ultimate sacrifice. I feel very strongly that we should take time to remember that.
"I've had no family in the forces but still feel it is very important.
"It worries me that younger people don't wear poppies – we should be remembering forever.
"We do remembrance well here in Nottingham.
"I usually go to church but I wanted to do something different this year."
And John Hamson, of Coppice Croft, Mansfield, said: "I'm here to support the cause – people seem to forget about it.
The 25-year old added: "It feels like it's a tradition rather than true understanding.
"It's important to remember where you came from and the sacrifices made for us.
"I hope today's going to be reflective. It's my first time. I've got a friend in the Territorial Army so I came to support. It's a good atmosphere."
Richard Poyle, of Northdown Road, Beechdale, said: "It's the first time I have been down.
The 44-year-old said: "I had a grandfather who fought in both world wars and a nephew in the forces now – it's important because of family connections.
"I don't think we are forgetting it at all – it is so important.
"It is personal to me and you will never have to go far to find someone affected."
