The Standard Bearer for Burnham-On-Sea’s branch of the Royal British Legion has spoken of the “huge honour” of being invited to represent the town at the national Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall in London over the weekend.
Simon Orchard MBE, the Standard Bearer for Burnham’s branch of the Royal British Legion was invited to Saturday night’s event, which was attended by Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge among other Royals.
Simon, who seved in frontline roles in Bosnia, Kosovo and Northern Ireland, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It was a great honour to represent Burnham at the festival along two other Standard Bearers from the county – Bridgwater and Shepton. We formed the Somerset representation.”
“Burnham standard was among the 102 standards on display during the festival.”
“Taking part this year was even more an honour than usual and extra special as it was commemorating 100 years of the Royal British Legion in front of the Royal family.”
The event was opened by the Royal Marines fanfare team, who were followed by Royal British Legion members carrying blue and gold standards. The blue indicates loyalty and fidelity and the gold represents trial by fire.
The festival, shown on BBC1, honours military personnel, past and present, for their service and dedication in defending our freedoms and way of life.
Tony Moore, the Burnham Standard Bearer from 2006 to 2013, was chosen, with others from the County, to attend the Festival in 2007, 2008 and 2009.
Simon is pictured above with MP James Heappey, who also attended the festival on Saturday night in his ministerial role. Both took part in local remembrance ceremonies on Sunday.
