COURAGE and sacrifice were on the minds of a reflective crowd at Remembrance Sunday services across the town today.

Reading communities came together to honour the heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice and gave their life for their country.

The streets were packed with people proudly wearing their poppies to stand shoulder to shoulder during services up and down Reading, including services in the town centre, Woodley, Tilehurst, Theale and more.

In Reading town centre, crowds watched on as The Waterloo Band and Bugles of the 7 Rifles led veterans, service personnel and cadets proudly through Broad Street.

The parade started from Reading Minster following the church Remembrance Service which included readings from Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire James Puxley, Major Robert Whittle, OC C (Berkshire) Company, 7th Battalion, The RIFLES, and the Mayor of Reading Rachel Eden.

The procession made its way to the Forbury War Memorial where crowds were gathered outside Forbury Gardens for the laying of wreaths and two-minute silence held at 11am.

Crowds fell silent in Woodley too to pay tribute to those who have died in the two world wars and following conflicts. A service was held at the memorial in Woodford Park.

Speaking at the service on Armistice Day, Woodley town mayor Janet Sartorel said: "As we stand here in peace and safety, I would like to thank you for joining Woodley Town Council and the Winnersh and District Royal British Legion to pay our respects and remember all of those who have fallen; all of the wounded; and all who have served in conflicts and wars.

“Remembrance Day is the day we all remember the brave who have served and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace. We remember those who volunteered, sacrificed, served, fought and died for our freedom.

“I am honoured to represent the residents of Woodley today and I wear my poppy with pride as a symbol of remembrance and hope for a positive future and peaceful world. Thank you.”

Over in Theale the annual parade took to the High Street to make its way up to the war memorial at the Holy Trinity Church where a service followed.

In Tilehurst, there was once again a huge turn out as the community joined forces to 'turn Tilehurst red for Remembrance' following the efforts on Armistice Day to create a giant 'pennies poppy' to help fundraise for the Royal British Legion poppy appeal.

If you have pictures of Remembrance Sunday services send them over to naomi.herring@newsquest.co.uk to include in this week's Reading Chronicle.