Remembrance Day 2026: crowds gather for parade and poignant speeches

Remembrance Day was marked at the Bennethorpe Memorial with a military parade, a brass band and prayers on Sunday, November 11.

The event started at 10.30am with cadets and soldiers marching into the memorial space.

For the first time a large screen was used so that members of the crowd could see everything that was happening even if they were not at the front of the crowd.

The memorial was lined by crowds with no empty spaces - several hundreds if not more than a thousand people were in attendance.

Crowds looked on eagerly to watch the military personnel march until they found their final places for the service.

Prayers were spoken, the brass band played classic songs and there was of course a two minute silence at 11am.

Those in attendance included South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, MP Sally Jameson and Civic Mayor Jackie Dudley.

Wreaths were laid by many including Ben Parkinson MBE - crowds clapped for the veteran when he went up to the cenotaph.

Jenny Dewsnap, from Doncaster Council, said: “ We were pleased with the new layout and features of the event, we’ve had positive feedback already from the military and the public.

“We are required to make changes in line with event safety. The event is so important to us as a team and as Doncaster Council and we were, as always, glad to see so many people paying their respects to the military.”

After the event crowds were able to visit the cenotaph, lay flowers and place crosses for those they have lost.

One veteran told us: “It is just lovely to see - especially the young cadets, they do us proud.”

Crowd member Heath Green, 68, from Cantley said: “I want to thank all of the servicemen who have served in the forces.”

This was echoed by Phillipa Dean, 45, Armthorpe who said: “I come to this every year, I think it is important that we show our respect and thanks.”

After the service the parade marched to the Mansion House - roads were blocked off and crowds gathered to watch.

There was a service at St George’s Minster shortly after.