Veterans lead Winchester’s defiant tribute to the fallen

From arranging wreaths at the War Memorial to guiding the city’s Remembrance Sunday service, Spaulding ensures Winchester comes together to remember courage, sacrifice, and the legacy of those who served. 

Long before Winchester Cathedral filled with hymns on Remembrance Sunday, retired Sergeant Major Andy Spaulding of the Royal Green Jackets was already at work.

For 16 years, he has organised the city’s wreath-laying, checking each tribute and arranging them with precision so the service runs smoothly and honours those who served. For Spaulding, the role is deeply personal. 

“I’ve been doing my role for 16 years, so for me it’s an honour to go to Worthy Down, check all the wreaths off and lay them out, and then get the people, when they come out the Cathedral, to lay their wreaths,”.

Hundreds of residents, veterans, and local dignitaries filled the Cathedral to pay their respects. Led by the Reverend Canon Dr Roland Riem, Interim Dean of Winchester Cathedral, the service included readings, hymns, and anthems such as For the Fallen.

At 11am, the crowd moved to the Outer Close, where Winchester’s War Memorial stands. Local groups, including Winchester District Scouts, cadet forces, schools, and veteran associations laid wreaths, joined by residents and dignitaries such as local MP Danny Chambers. 

“It brings to life what happened in the First World War, the Second World War, and also the veterans who have passed away. It brings us all together for this special day,” Spaulding said. 

For retired Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Warren of the Royal Hampshire Regiment and the Gurkhas, Remembrance Sunday is deeply personal. 

“It’s an opportunity to reflect and think back to those who I served with in a number of operational tours around the world, a number of casualties, and sadly a number of deaths. It’s a moment to remember those people,” Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Warren

Community involvement was a central theme. Robin Cook, district lead volunteer for Winchester District Scouts, said: “It’s important we help them understand the bravery and dedication of those who served, so they can carry that respect forward.” Leading Chef Simon Philip Taylor agreed: “It’s moving to see so many people paying their respects today.” The hundreds gathered in the Cathedral grounds stood as a testimony to fallen soldiers.

Remembrance Sunday in Winchester saw participation from the city’s residents, with events held at the Cathedral and the War Memorial. The ceremonies marked the courage and sacrifice of those who gave their lives in service, and provided an opportunity for the community to pay their respects.