ROPLEY parish hall was packed almost to capacity for the village’s remembrance service, with a congregation that included adults, young people, and children.

There were representative groups from the local Brownie pack, who were accompanied by their leader Suzan Yianni, Cubs and Beavers, and RopleyPrimary School, accompanied by their Year 1 teacher Pippa Burrows.

Also in attendance were district councillor Charles Louisson, a member of the parish council, and Jack Francis, who read the names from the Ropley roll of honour, from the Royal British Legion.

More than 30 children, young people and adults carried in poppies which had been made locally as the names of those who lost their lives were read out, providing a poignant reminder of how many people from one small village were killed as a result of war. In all, 63 candles were lit in their memory last Sunday.

The Brownies’ flag was carried by Elizabeth Moorhouse and the Ropley school banner was carried by Alexander Williams.

Prayers and poems were read by Alexander Williams, Oliver Ferrari, Charlotte Sandell and Robin Dupree and the lessons were read by Gordon Dennis, who recently retired from the Navy, and Dr John Hurley. The music was played by Barbara Longlands.

During the service, which was led by Reverend Amanda Grant, who is the locum priest following the retirement of the last incumbent, wreaths were presented by Doreen Gostage, on behalf of St Peter’s Church, and Charles Louisson, on behalf of East Hampshire District Council.

There was also an opportunity for veterans and other members of the congregation to offer roses in memory of those they wished to remember.

Villager Norma Day said: “This was the first Remembrance Sunday service held by the congregation of St Peter’s, who now meet regularly in the parish hall, since the devastating fire destroyed the village church building last year, and it was really positive to see the community coming together and showing that the church in Ropley is still very much alive.”