The Showmen’s Guild Remembrance Service at the National Arboretum in Alrewas took place on Sunday 17 November, a week following Remembrance Sunday, itself the day before Armistice Day The commemorations this year included that of the 80th anniversary of D Day and the Normandy Landings in WWII.
This level of interest continues with visitors drawn from across the country and was matched by the strong attendance by Showmen on Sunday for the Guild’s Service; itself once more with the later date in the calendar and the start time of midday.
The Showmen’s Guild monument was thus seen in its best presentation along with the galloping horse making its triumphant return, following its refurbishment by Michael Harris and his family. The staff at the Arboretum also spent extra time sprucing it all up prior to the Guild’s delegation’s arrival.
Revd. Alan Bagshawe then led the service, addressing the congregation. In welcoming the gathered members and their families, the Revd. Bagshawe spoke of the significance of this year’s occasion, following the events 80 years ago; reflecting on the legacy of this and other conflicts for the community and beyond; explaining the significance of remembrance and the connection beyond the world.
Showmen’s Guild President, John Thurston, read ‘Flanders Fields’ by John McCrae ahead of laying the Central Office wreath, followed by the Sections Chairmen & delegates doing so and reading from their Rolls of Honour.
Then other officials, including Past President Cllr Anthony Harris, Mayor of Walsall, from the people of that town; followed by Steve Nutter, Chairman of SIRPS on behalf of his members’ fallen and survivors. Several Guild members and others also laid wreaths and other symbols of remembrance.
Following the final Exhortation from President John Thurston, the Showmen’s Guild chosen returning Bugler from the National Arboretum, Antonio Socci, sounded the last post ahead of the lacing of wreaths.
Following further prayers, led by Revd. Bagshawe, the official bugler accompanied the congregation as they sang the National Anthem.
Several visitors to the Arboretum took an interest in the Showmen’s Guild service and the monument in its special setting remains a key moment daily for many; both walking and as a described landmark on the conducted tours by the popular land train; the operation of which was itself specially suspended by arrangement with the Showmen’s Guild for the duration of the service.
Later as the congregation retired to the Aspects Suite, with its commanding views across the National Arboretum, for refreshments and recollections, laid on by the Guild, the President, John Thurston, once more addressed them, speaking of his pride both in being here today and of his being able to join those members marching past the Cenotaph in the Capital, the preceding Sunday.