In Pictures: Southend military parade on Remembrance Sunday

Southend’s Cenotaph on the cliffs was, once again, at the centre of south Essex’s Remembrance Sunday events as crowds turned out to remember those who gave their lives for their country.

Southend mayor Stephen Habermel, MPs and councillors joined together with veterans, servicemen, police and families to pay their respects, as these pictures by Gaz de Vere illustrate.

As the bells of Big Ben chimed at 11am, the crowds fell silent in line with so many other Remembrance events across south Essex.

Crowds line the cliffs for the Remembrance Service in Southend (Image: Gaz de Vere)

Mr Habermel then led the laying of the wreaths at the Cenotaph, followed by other dignitaries.

The Cross of Remembrance was placed on behalf of war widows alongside wreaths from emergency services, faith community leaders and veteran organisations.

Following readings and prayers, there were hymns and musical contributions by the Southend Citadel Band of the Salvation Army and Southend Choir.

Veterans take their place on Southend's cliffs for the Remembrance Service (Image: Gaz de Vere)

The mayor, MPs, schools, youth groups and veterans’ organisations then laid wreaths on the Cenotaph before a military parade along the cliffs.

Southend West MP Anna Firth said: “It feels particularly pertinent at a time of conflict to commemorate the incredible servicemen and women who gave their lives in both the First and Second World Wars, and in subsequent conflicts.

"I am reminded today of the immensity of the sacrifice of those throughout Southend, both within and outside of active military service.

"We have incredible heritage in Southend, which we should always celebrate – including the six Dunkirk 'Little Ships' which sailed from Leigh, rescuing more than 1,000 troops.

"We are so fortunate to still have the Endeavour with us as a living reminder of this sacrifice. I am reminded of the old adage, ‘never was so much given by so many’, which stands strong today."

Veterans prepare to lay wreaths at Southend Cenotaph (Image: Gaz de Vere)

Southend councillor Aston Line said: “Our city has lost a great many over the years, and I was honoured to lay wreaths both at the Southend war memorial and the St Clement's Church Remembrance service in Leigh.

“On this day we reflect on the human costs of war, and the sacrifices made by our armed forces in conflict.

“In their honour, it is our duty to do all in our power to strive for a world of peace.”