Every November, Consett gathers to honour the memory of those who have died in conflict and to make sure their sacrifices are never forgotten. Remembrance is a commitment shared across generations: a moment to reflect on the cost of war, recognise the courage of those who served, and uphold the values of peace, freedom and community.
This year marks a new beginning, as the Consett Remembrance Group prepares to deliver its first Remembrance Parade since forming earlier this year.
The Group was created after council funding for the parade was withdrawn in 2025. For many years the event had been organised and funded by the council, and when that support ended there was a real risk that Consett's Remembrance Parade, a long-established tradition deeply rooted in the town's history, might disappear. Determined not to let that happen, a small team of local people came together with one clear purpose: to make sure the message of Remembrance is never lost in Consett.
Their first meeting took place in early 2026, and what began as a handful of volunteers has grown into a structured committee of Veterans, youth organisations, churches, schools, councillors and business owners. Each brings their own experience and community connections, helping to make sure the parade reflects the whole town.
The work behind the parade
Behind the scenes, the Group's work is extensive. Members take responsibility for safety planning, stewarding, fundraising, insurance and the paperwork Durham County Council requires. They coordinate cadet detachments, bands, Standard Bearers and wreath layers. They design posters, manage social media, organise briefings and plan the parade route. Every detail, from timings and road closures to communications and logistics, is handled by people who simply want to keep this tradition alive.
This first year is a significant undertaking, but the Group hopes that by keeping the parade alive, younger generations will continue to understand its importance. Cadets marching alongside Veterans, families laying wreaths and a town standing together in silence remain one of Consett's most powerful moments of the year.
Sunday 8 November: times
The parade steps off from Christ Church, Consett, at 10.40am, with Veterans, cadet forces, youth organisations, Standard Bearers and community groups. It moves through the town centre to the Cenotaph for the Service of Remembrance at 10.55am, with the two-minute silence at 11am. Wreaths are then laid by Veterans, families, organisations and civic leaders.
Updates, announcements and behind-the-scenes progress are on the Group's Facebook page: facebook.com/consettremembrance
The Consett Remembrance Group invites everyone to attend the parade, support local Remembrance activities and help make sure this tradition continues for generations to come.
Anthony Page's Remembrance poem, Long Lost Grave, is also online: consettmagazine.com/long-lost-grave-by-anthony-page
Words supplied by Consett Remembrance Group
