This year's parade was held on Sunday, 29 May 2011. Parade participants gathered at 1245hrs on the grounds of the Catford and Bromley Synagogue. The parade commenced at 1300hrs led by Parade Marshall was Mr William Went (Ex 7 Para Royal Horse Artillery) and accompanied by the band of TS Tenacity.
The parade lasted approximately 30 minutes: It proceeded down Crantock Road, first turning left into Bromley Road and then right into Allerford Road. At this point, the salute was taken by Commander Chris Hardinge MBE, RNR (H.M.S. President). The standards and band moved into the Memorial Gardens where the service was subsequently conducted by Reverend Derek Clacey. A few speeches were made and wreaths were laid.
Following the service, everyone went inside the Bellingham Ex-Servicemens Club's clubhouse where singer Gracie Lynn entertained everyone with songs from the 1940s. the afternoon. The club supplied food and made drinks available to all.
Approximately 250 people attended the day's events. Among the dignitaries and special guests present were Councillor Pauline Morrison, Concillors Jim and Janet Gillman Mayor and Mayoress of Greenwich, Lieutenant Commander David Lewis JP MCGI RNR SCC, members of the 221st Field Squadron Royal Engineers Bomb Dispossal TA and Hood veteran Alec Kellaway. It was a special honour to have Alec attend.
As always, we of the H.M.S. Hood Association appreciate the wonderful work carried out by our good friends of the Battlecruiser HMS HOOD South East London Memorial Group. We wish them continued success and look forward to continuing our close relationship.
Upcoming Parade
The next parade is scheduled for Sunday, 03 June 2012. Participants should assemble at the Catford and Bromley Synagogue at No 6 Crantock Road, Catford SE6 2QT at 1230 hours. The parade will commence at 1300 hours. Following the parade there will be a service followed by refreshments and entertainment. You can see more details here.
Assorted Photos of 2011 Parade
Pass the cursor over the below photos to view descriptions. Click on the photos to view enlarged versions. Also note that additional photos/video can be found at the First Honour Productions website.
