"We need facts," says Reform UK over "misinformation" Remembrance parade was being axed

The leader of Reform UK in Doncaster has written to Mayor Ros Jones telling her: “We need the facts,” after rumours were spread online that the council was axing the city’s annual Remembrance Sunday parade.

The mayor has insisted the city’s annual Remembrance Day parade is going ahead as normal blasting “misinformation” about it being reportedly being scrapped.

Now Reform UK leader Howard Rimmer has waded in and demanded answers from the Mayor.

A post on the party’s Facebook page said: “There has been conflicting information about the future of the Remembrance Day parade and its funding.

“The Mayor has said that the parade is going ahead and that funding has not been cut and remains in place.

“However, concerns have been raised publicly about whether funding or arrangements have been changed.

“Until we have that confirmation, we believe it is important to establish the facts rather than rely on conflicting claims.”

Mr Rimmer said: “Remembrance is far too important for there to be confusion or conflicting accounts about its future.

“I have written to the Mayor to seek a clear explanation of the position, including the funding and arrangements for the parade.

“Our veterans and Armed Forces deserve nothing less than certainty and our full support.

“Reform UK Doncaster will continue to support the Remembrance Day Parade and oppose any reduction in the support or funding it receives.Lest we forget.”

But Mayor Jones hit back against the claims, blasting them as “misinformation.”

She said: “From my perspective, the parade is going ahead as it previously has done for Remembrance Sunday.

“Any decision to amend the parade or its route would ultimately be taken in partnership with representatives from our Armed Forces and I have not received any request to change the parade in any respect.

“Funding has not been cut and remains in place to support the parade.

“For anyone to state otherwise is spreading misinformation.

“I find it deeply concerning that this individual chose to share rumours on social media before checking the accuracy of what they had 'heard from a third party'.

“Under my leadership, Doncaster Council is committed to helping and supporting our Doncaster Armed Forces, Veterans, Cadets and Reservists.”

The annual parade takes place to Doncaster Minster following a wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial in Bennetthorpe on Remembrance Sunday in November.