It was cold and windy but dry and bright in Carlisle city centre yesterday morning.

And as soon as the clocks chimed 11am the usually busy area fell suddenly silent –precisely 101 years to the minute since the World War One guns had fallen silent.

A large gathering of veterans, cadets, serving members of the forces and ordinary citizens gathered at the war memorial in Green Market for the annual commemoration.

Shoppers, shop staff and workmen stopped what they were doing and observed the two minutes’ silence.

The service was led by Rev Keith Teasdale, vicar of St Cuthbert’s church in the city centre. Mayor Marilyn Bowman, deputy lord lieutenant Tess Hart and Tony Parrini, secretary of Carlisle and Stanwix Royal British Legion, also took part.

The Last Post was played by 16-year-old trumpeter Martin Atkinson, a sixth former at Trinity School.

A lone bagpiper played while wreaths were laid.

It was a children’s remembrance service, so youngsters from 25 different primary schools in and around Carlisle were in attendance. They laid wreaths they had made and some read prayers they had composed.

Mr Parrini explained that the children’s remembrance is held every year on a day close to Remembrance Sunday to ensure that future generations continue to mark the occasion.

He said: “It’s so important that we keep this service going, and that children remember this day – and also remember the servicemen and women who are serving their country today.

“Don’t forget them. Remember the day every year, and when you hear about the armed services on the news, pause for a few moments.”

Children from Norman Street Primary School in Botcherby played a prominent role in the ceremony. The choir and year six pupils sang Keep The Home Fires Burning and Ode of Remembrance set to music.

The year six pupils are studying the two world wars in history so year six teacher and choir leader Rebecca Waters said they knew about the significance of 11am on November 11.

“This is the fifth year the choir have been here,” Miss Waters said.

“We feel it’s important to bring them, and for the children to have that respect.

“They do have an understanding of remembrance. It’s important that they realise that it’s not just about people from the past.”