We then, instead of as most people would think, going home to put our feet up and rest our tired voices, made our way, a long blue and white crocodile, to the Market Square.
Since we were a quarter of an hour earlier there than normal, we had to stand (in silence, the microphones were right in front of us) until the town Remembrance Service began.
This year, the petrol fuelled generator from which all the cables operating the microphones was run, was right behind us.
Backs and legs aching from the previous hour and a half we then took part in the hour-long service - six hymns and an anthem - and additionally had to cope with the fumes from the generator.
Much as I respect and love the annual remembering of all those who fought in the two great wars and all the others since, I think the time has come for me to listen to my last Last Post in the Square.
Having to move off in procession at the end of the service with feet and legs of solid concrete is almost impossible, and the fact that the street we walk along back to St Mary's is cobbled is just the icing on the cake.
Time I think to call it a day. Next year I will take part in the church service and the churchyard one but not the Civic Service in the square.
Not one to play the 'age card' as a general rule, next year as an 80-year old I will do just that..
I agree, Ray. You've more than played your part in the church and town remembrance services over the years and it's time for the younger ones to do their bit. You must have great stamina to have got through that lot and I'm glad the weather was mild for you.
ReplyDeleteIt's that stamina which is diminishing Perpetua, so from now on
Deleteit will be a valued (and rationed) resource. :=)
Well done, Ray -- but, indeed, I agree with Perpetua. Glad the weather cooperated at least!
ReplyDeleteYes we were very lucky to have a dry and comparatively warm day. Saturday had been appalling.
DeleteAlthough you wouldn't have had a chance to speak with him my son was there representing the Royal Navy at the Remembrance Service. Probably his last time in Aylesbury for this, he is moving on to pastures new in January so he and DiL could be living anywhere in a year's time, probably will let their home, it's conveniently near SM hospital.
ReplyDeleteI remember you saying last year that your son was in the square, though this year was extra special.
ReplyDeleteI hope he will settle happily in his new environment.
I reached the same conclusion last year.so this year after the service in church I came home...well done to you for managing it!
ReplyDeleteBy the skin of my teeth Jean, so a good reason not to repeat the experience again.
ReplyDeleteSometimes we really need to know when to stop.