After Saturday's downpour, I think we were all hoping for a reprieve on Remembrance Sunday. Someone was listening, because that's what we got. A cold, but clear day, and one I enjoyed with residents from both Portland and Swanage. I alternate between Weymouth and the island as their Services are at the same time, and it was Portland's turn this year. I love this Service, as it's held at the Memorial at the top of the hill, with the most spectacular view towards Chesil Beach and beyond. I arrived at Portland Heights Hotel at about 1030 and was soon chatting to the many people who had gathered their, including the island's fabulous Mayor, Cllr Susan Cocking. I met her family and many others, before the Rector of Portland, the Reverend Timm Gomm, led us out to the Memorial. Hundreds had gathered under clear skies and the Service was soon under way. I was one of many who laid a wreath to pay respect to those who did not come home from the battlefield. It's always a poignant event and I stood to attention as the Last Post was played followed by two minutes' silence. Afterwards, I went into the hotel cafe and enjoyed catching up with many islanders and their families. With the Swanage parade brought forward to 1400, I then headed to the resort, grabbing a sandwich on the way. We assembled by the Mowlem Theatre, before marching to St Mary's Church behind a pipe band. Many residents had come to watch as the procession wound its way through the town. The Service was taken by the Very Reverend John Mann, who led us all in prayer and song with great sensitivity. Then it was back out on to the road and we marched to the Memorial for the final part of the parade. With the sun dipping in the sky, and the Isle of Wight clearly visible in the distance, I love this part of the Service. We all laid our wreaths and took part in a small Service before we were all dismissed. I stayed behind to chat to several people and then said my farewells and headed home for supper. A fabulous day and an important one. We owe the brave men and women of the Armed Services so much.