A REMEMBRANCE Service held at Queen Elizabeth’s School in Crediton on Friday, November 11, was attended by the whole school for the first time.

A group of cadets who are students at the school, were led by Corporal Maddie Fairchild and formed a Guard of Honour for guests to enter the outdoor area at the start of the Remembrance Service.

These included descendants of D-Day veteran Robert Reeves.

The cadets then formed a line at the far end of the area.

The students and staff then filed into the area and an adjoining area for the service.

The school Principal Rupert Poole said: ‘One of our core values is that of reflection and today there will be deep reflection.

“The act of remembrance is one of our bigger and more fundamental values.”

The Rev Matthew Tregenza, Rector of Crediton talked about poppies and their significance as a universal sign of remembrance. And of our armed forces in various parts of the world who bring peace and then keep it.

He thanked the students and said: “The future is in your hands. Please do your bit to make the world a better place. Remember those who have lived and died.”

There was a reading from the poem “For the Fallen” which was followed by a two-minute silence and “The Last Post” was played on the trumpet by student Adam Robbins.

The Mayor, Cllr Liz Brookes-Hocking said a few words followed by a prayer from the Rev Matthew Tregenza.

A small, private service was then held by the school’s Tommy statue, the silhouette of a soldier, which is dedicated to Robert Harry Thomas Reeves. Wreaths were laid at the foot of the statue and a short, poignant service was held.

The family said: “We think it’s an honour that we have all been invited to be part of QE’s Remembrance Service.

“He was a father, great grandfather, great great grandfather and an uncle.

“We are proud to be part of this special and important day to remember him and all those who lost their lives.”

Nora Parminter