BRAINTREE and Witham came together to remember the fallen on Remembrance Sunday, with wreath laying and parades across the town and surrounding villages.

A sombre atmosphere fell over mid Essex, with residents paying their respects to honour our fallen soldiers.

Over the past week, the annual Poppy Appeal has stood as a poignant reminder of the deep connections between the military and the community as poppies have been worn proudly.

On Remembrance Sunday, the nation came together for reflection and gratitude, holding a collective pause to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Together - Crowds of people came together for the Remembrance Sunday services Together - Crowds of people came together for the Remembrance Sunday services (Image: Braintree Council) Braintree and Bocking held a parade from the Public Gardens, where wreaths were laid, through to St Michael’s Church.

The service and parade were attended by Braintree MP James Cleverly and Braintree Council's Chairman, councillor Lyn Walters, who each laid a wreath.

Councillor Lynn Walters said: “It was heartening to see so many residents come out to pay their respects at the Remembrance Service and observe the parade through the town.

"It was a poignant moment to remember our fallen and the sacrifices of those who have served our country.”

Remember - Representatives in the community laid wreaths at the War Memorials Remember - Representatives in the community laid wreaths at the War Memorials (Image: Braintree Council)Across the district in Witham, the Remembrance parade was jointly organised by Witham Council and the Royal British Legion.

It assembled in the Avenue adjacent to the War Memorial with the memorial Hall open for tea and coffee.

A diverse array of attendees paid their respects, including Dame Priti Patel MP, Deputy Lieutenant Simon Brice, and Witham Town Mayor, Councillor Lucy Barlow.

Representatives from County, District and Town Councils were also present, alongside various local organisations who laid wreaths in tribute.

At the War Memorial, Rev Dr Jonathan Pritchard led a moving service, providing a moment of reflection and remembrance for all those gathered.

Parade - The day saw many groups come together for the parade and services Parade - The day saw many groups come together for the parade and services (Image: David Islip Photography) Councillor Lucy Barlow said: “Today’s Remembrance Parade was a testament to Witham’s strong community spirit and out collective commitment to honouring those who have given so much for our freedom.

“It was heartening to see such a diverse representation from our town coming together in this act of remembrance, particularly noting the increase in youth groups that came along to pay their respects.”

Rivenhall also paid its respects for Remembrance, with a service held at St Mary’s and All Saints Church, while Silver End’s service at the Silver End Village Hall saw wreaths laid and a parade from Silver End Scout Headquarters in Silver Street to the Village Hall.