Hundreds gathered throughout Copeland today in remembrance of those who have devoted their lives to our country, from serving on the front lines in World War One to the servicemen and women protecting the UK today.

Whitehaven saw a procession of military forces marching from the Catherine Street council offices to Castle Park, led by Reverend Robert Jackson.

The sun shone as crowds sang "Praise My Soul, the King of Heaven" before Revd Jackson led the gathering in prayer.

Representatives from Royal British Legion, the Armed Forces and Cadets, as well as Mayor of Copeland Mike Starkie amongst other figures from the town lay wreaths in solemn respect for those we have lost to war.

Mayor of Whitehaven Brian O'Kane commented on Whitehaven's Remembrance Sunday event, and said: "It's a great honour for the town council to be able to lead such an emotional and prestigious event in the town.

"Thankfully, every year attendance seems to be growing as people remember and realise the debt owed to the fallen."

In place of the town mayor laying a wreath, his four-year-old granddaughter, Betsy O'Kane, was proud to place it for him.

"She's been learning a lot about Remembrance Sunday at school, so she definitely knows the significance of the day," Mr O'Kane said.

Also proud to be involved in the Whitehaven parade was member of the British Army, Sergeant Murphy.

"I think it's good that local guys are here to take part in the parade – I'm from Workington, so it's good to parade in local areas," he said.

"It's an important day for us, because we have friends and colleagues that have lost their lives during active service and after – everyone knows someone who who's suffered due to war."

Sgt Murphy added: "The day isn't just about remembering those we lost in World War One, but remembering all those who have paid the greatest sacrifice for our country in every single war we've fought and are still fighting."

Sarah Atkinson of HM Coastguard shared the thoughts of all those in attendance, saying: "We're all very proud to be here to help and support the British Legion, to march in the parade, and just to remember everything the poppy stands for with everyone here today."

The Castle Park service was followed by a procession to the Whitehaven United Reformed Church for a service led by Reverend Dave Harkison.

Other services throughout the borough were held in Egremont, Cleator Moor, Gosforth, Distington, Kirkland amongst many others over the course of Remembrance weekend.