A record number of people went to the peace vigil in Wokingham on Remembrance Sunday.
Peace Pledge Union member David Chapman of Wokingham, who initiated the event at Howard Palmer Gardens, said afterwards: “It was great to see 18 people there. When I started the vigils over 20s years ago it was just me.”
Some of those attending read poems. Local poet Alan Brown read a new poem following the laying of a wreath of white poppies. The wreath was later transferred to All Saints Churchyard’s peace garden.
Mr Chapman added: “Alice Edwards gave a short address deploring violence and the gap between the spend on the war machine and peace initiatives.
“Others asked us to hold in mind all those who suffer trauma, injury, homelessness, and death from all wars.
“We were also reminded of the devastation to the environment which results from wars and also that poverty is higher in countries where there is conflict, and that we cannot end poverty without investing in peace.”
The next vigil will be on May 15 at Howard Palmer Gardens to mark International Conscientious Objectors Day. Anyone wishing to contribute or suggest changes to the formats of future vigils can email Mr Chapman at [email protected]
