The haunting melodies of bagpipes echoed through the silence as the South Essex Parachute Regiment Association re-dedicated its standard.
Police had to close the surrounding roads as dozens turned up to watch yesterday morning.
Around 20 standards from parachute regiments across Essex joined in the ceremony to show solidarity with those from the south of the county and lay wreaths at the foot of the Cenotaph in Westcliff Parade.
And then, for around half an hour, the street became a parade ground as soldiers moved into formation and followed their standard bearers to pipes and drums.
Pip Tyler, spokesman for the South Essex Parachute Regiment Association, said: "By rededicating our standard we were rededicating the regiment to the service of God."
Published Monday, June 23, 2003
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