Remembrance Sunday
Remembrance Sunday has long held a special significance at Sedbergh – pupils, parents, alumni and staff have always chosen to mark the occasion at the Sedbergh School Memorial Cloisters. This year was no different as over 1000 people stood in silence, honouring those Sedberghians who had given their lives in conflict.
The Chaplain, Paul Sweeting opened the service:
‘We are gathered together this day in fellowship with many others throughout the world to remember before the throne of God all those who have laid down their lives in the cause of freedom, justice and peace; and to pray for all those who suffered and still suffer by reason of war.’
The evocative service included readings from the Headmaster and Head of School, moments of reflection and silence, communal hymns, and performances by the School choir and the School pipers. Wreaths were laid on behalf of the Old Sedbergian Club, the Royal Navy, the 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery and the Royal Air Force. After the service, following tradition, the School and guests were invited to file past the Victoria Cross memorial and lay their poppy on the monument.
This year had added significance. Three new names of first world war casualties were added to the Memorial Cloisters during the autumn term. News of the war time deaths of these men has only reached Sedbergh recently and so it was an honour to recognise them amongst our casualty lists for the first time.
These men were:
Captain James Fisher, Lupton House (1910 – 1911), King’s Own Royal Lancaster Regiment
Examiner Humphrey. M. Thompson, Sedgwick House (1906 – 1909), Aeroplane Investigation Department
Rifleman George Windram, Sedgwick House (1895 – 1898). Battalion 3rd New Zealand Rifle Brigade
The family of George Windram attended the service and were touched to meet the Rev Paul Sweeting, who earlier this year had visited George’s grave on behalf of the School. Families of Old Sedberghians are warmly welcome to visit the School during our special events, and throughout the year.
To arrange a visit, please contact the Development Office at osclub@sedberghschool.org.
Karin Windram by her ancestor’s name on the Cloisters.