Britain falls silent on Armistice Day

Cities and towns across Britain came to a standstill at 11 o’clock on the 11th day of the 11th month – when the First World War ended in 1918. Ceremonies were held to mark those who died in two world wars and more recent conflicts, including Afghanistan.

In London, the Cenotaph in Whitehall was the focus for a remembrance service organised by the Western Front Association. General Sir David Richards, Chief of the Defence Staff, and the head of the British Army General Sir Peter Wall attended, along with servicemen and women.

Television stars paid their respects at Trafalgar Square, where there were musical performances and readings. Among the performers were Downton Abbey actor Dan Stevens, Strictly Come Dancing’s Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace, singing trio the Soldiers and soprano starlet Laura Wright.

The event also featured the first screening of a video showing Dame Vera Lynn and Alesha Dixon’s new version of classic Second World War anthem We’ll Meet Again.

National Memorial Arboretum

At the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, a service of remembrance was attended by dignitaries including Armed Forces Minister Nick Harvey. The monument is designed so that at o’clock on 11 November, sunlight passes though a slot in its inner and outer walls and hits a central bronze wreath sculpture.

Afghanistan

In Afghanistan, Defence Secretary Philip Hammond and thousands of troops took part in a special parade at Camp Bastion.

Plymouth

Ten thousand people turned out to cheer marines and soldiers as they marched through their Plymouth in one of the largest military spectacles the city has seen since the Second World War.

Near the Cenotaph, more than 170 people, believed to be supporters of the English Defence League, were arrested “to prevent a breach of the peace”, according to the Metropolitan Police.

Properties raided

On Thursday night, properties connected to the Islamist group, Muslims Against Crusades (MAC), were raided following a decision by Home Secretary Theresa May to make it a criminal offence to support the organisation. There were no arrests.

MAC had planned a demonstration against the Armistice Day ceremonies. Last year, members of the group burned two large poppies outside the Royal Albert Hall in London.