A call went out to members of the public today to once again turn out and pay their respects to the nation’s fallen war heroes at Remembrance Day services which are being held across the Black Country and Staffordshire.

Last year’s events in the region saw a huge increase in the numbers of people attending due to the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan. And it is hoped crowds will again be seen again gathering at cenotaphs and memorials to military servicemen and women who have given their lives.

In Wolverhampton, more than 600 people turned out last year, compared to the previous year when only 36 attended.

Wolverhampton Mayor Councillor Malcolm Gwinnett said: “Remembrance Sunday is a solemn and very moving occasion which gives the city an opportunity to pay its respects.

“We hope as many members of the public as possible will join us at the services and wreath-laying ceremony.”

John Mellor, Wolverhampton branch president of the Royal British Legion, added: “We would hope that similar numbers turn out once again this year.”

Services will be taking place across the Black Country and Staffordshire on November 14.

In Wolverhampton, the occasion will begin with a parade through the city centre by detachments from ex-military service, current service and pre-service units and representatives of local organisations.

At the cenotaph in St Peter’s Square there will be a Drumhead service just before 11am, which is a religious service traditionally attended by troops in the field with music provided by the RAF Cosford Band and the Pipe Band of the West Midlands Fire Service.

In Walsall, the Mayor will lead the annual civic procession to the town’s cenotaph for the Remembrance Day service and the laying of wreaths to honour the borough’s servicemen and women.

Buglers from the Staffordshire Band will sound The Last Post before a rifle salute to mark the two minutes’ silence is given by members of 4 Mercian.

In Dudley there is a parade from 10.30am, followed by a service and two minute silence at the cenotaph.

By Helen Cartwright