Thousands of people paid their respects to the Britain’s service personnel during Trowbridge’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations.

A parade began at 9.15am, outside the Town Hall, and was followed by a service, taken by the Rev Dr Rob Thomas, at St James’ Church.

Afterwards, the procession went to Trowbridge Park, where it was joined at the town’s War Memorial by a crowd of about 2,000 people in a two-minute silence at 11am.

Representatives of the Royal British Legion, Trowbridge Town Council, the White Ensign Association and other organisations laid wreaths at the monument.

Brian Mitchell, Trowbridge Royal British Legion’s parade marshal, said: “It was a pleasure to see so many people show their respects. It was unbelievable to have so many young people attend and really understand the event’s significance.”

In preparation for the annual commemoration, members of the Royal British Legion collected donations for the Poppy Appeal at The Shires shopping centre. The branch’s total is being tallied.

Mr Mitchell said: “Every penny raised goes towards the welfare of our veterans. Even at the age of 74, I make sure I get out there every year and be a part of it, as we are a family.”

Trowbridge Town Council invited parade participants to a reception at the Civic Centre.

On Monday, another a two-minute silence was held at the War Memorial to mark the anniversary of the end of the First World War, at 11am on November 11, 1918.

William Naesmyth, the RBL’s branch president, said: “It is important to remember the dead and wounded from all conflicts.

“With our servicemen still all over the world, the importance of remembrance events is as strong as ever.”