MEMBERS of Pershore and District’s Royal Naval Association joined thousands in Wootton Bassett as the Union Flag was lowered for the last time to repatriate fallen troops.
The Wiltshire market town has become famous for its tributes to the fallen as they have returned home but troops will now be flown to RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire.
Members of Pershore and District Royal Naval Association attended the sunset ceremony at Wootton Bassett on Wednesday.
RNA welfare officer and standard bearer Arthur Young, who has represented the branch more than 40 times at Wootton Bassett, was there.
A Pershore RNA plaque was presented to the manager of the Cross Keys pub in the town, which takes pride of place behind the bar there.
Speaking after the event, chairman Ted Annis said it was one of the most moving events he’d ever attended. He said: “From the moment we arrived there were crowds of people who had turned up to pay their respects and by the time the streets closed, you could hardly see in front of you. The sight of the Union Flag being lowered brought a lump to my throat and it really brings home to you the ultimate sacrifice paid by too many.”
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