Bracknell

Reflection, comfort and remembrance was offered to hundreds of Bracknell people who paid their respects to loved ones buried or cremated at Easthampstead Park Cemetery and Crematorium during the annual open air memorial service on Sunday (September 2).

The remembrance service took place at the Bracknell Forest Borough Council run crematorium on Sunday afternoon to give comfort and reflection to hundreds of people wanting to remember relatives and friends.

The Mayor of Bracknell Forest, Cllr Mrs Gill Birch, gave a reading offering words of comfort during the 45 minute service. She also released doves as a symbol of peace during the reading from Corinthians 1:13 - faith, hope and love, the greatest of all being love. Scouts from the area also released six doves from a white basket.

Other readings and prayers were made by Reverend Andrew Frearson from St Andrews Church in Priestwood, Reverend Philip Thomas from High Cross Methodist Church, and Deacon Tony Cunningham from St Joseph and St Margaret Clitherow Church

Jan Frances from the Humanist Celebrant will also made a non-religious reading during the 20th annual service.

Bracknell Cllr Mrs Birch, said: "The memorial service, as always, was very well attended and provided a great deal of comfort to many residents who wanted to take time to remember loved ones, who are sadly no longer with us.

"The readings, speeches and prayers were not only comforting but also offered the chance for reflection and remembrance."

More than £900 of donations made during the service will be given to the Mayor's chosen charity which is the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help.

Bracknell Forest Borough Council