An Egremont & District standard bearer was selected to represent the county of Cumberland & Westmorland at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday night.

Gareth Edwards travelled to the event with Kevin Rishworth – Egremont & District branch chairman, so that they could share the driving and drive through the night to get back in time for the parade in Egremont on Sunday.

Gareth said: “It was a moving and humbling experience, it was an absolute privilege and a real honour to ensure the county and the town of Egremont was represented and in front of the Queen, who is our commander-in-chief.”

They both made it back in time for the Egremont parade and wreath laying service at Moor Row, which were both well attended.

The branch were delighted with one generous donation, from 11 year old Lily-Mae Dunn, who saved her snack and pocket money up and donated £23 to the poppy appeal.

Gareth said: “She did it as a surprise last year as well, then rang dad to say she wanted to donate again this year. It’s absolutely magic. It’s a wonderful act of selflessness by saving up her money. It shows the youth of today are remembering and do care.”

The Lad Barber at Egremont also joined in with the remembrance events with a fantastic display in the shop window depicting a remembrance theme and on November 11 they offered free haircuts to veterans and if veterans refused the offer, Kelly Ann Kirkbride and owner Gary Somerville said they would donate money to the Royal British Legion.