Only the wind in the trees and the sound of planes passing overhead could be heard at Highgate Cemetery yesterday morning, as it marked Armistice Day.
The cemetery, where dozens of former soldiers are buried, holds an annual memorial to mark the end of the First World War. This year’s event marked 100 years since hostilities ended in 1918.
Channing School sixth former Olivia Dugdale played the Last Post on her trumpet, before the 30 people in attendance observed a minutes silence. It was the first time the tune has been played on Armistice Day at Highgate Cemetery’s event. Trustee Doreen Aislabie then read Lt Col John McCrea’s poem In Flanders Field, after which a wreath was laid at the foot of the memorial.
Miss Dugdale, 17, said it was “daunting” to have the responsibility of playing the piece on the centenary, but acknowledged the anniversary’s importance.
Ms Aislabie said: “It was very moving. It was lovely to see so many people come along, more than we normally do. We decided to have the Last Post played to do something special to mark the anniversary.”
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