RESIDENTS looking to attend the annual Remembrance Day service at Worcester Cathedral are being advised to stay at home or book their seats in advance.

The coronvirus pandemic has affected this year’s commemorations, with many gathering either being cancelled or forced to go virtual.

In Worcester, Mayor Jo Hodges called on the city’s people to mark Remembrance Sunday from home this year.

She said: “This has not been an easy decision, but I have no doubt that it would have been completely irresponsible to go ahead with a parade that always attracts large numbers, especially of veterans – many of whom could be highly vulnerable to the coronavirus.

“Remembrance Sunday will still be an event that everyone can observe. Stay at home, watch the Cathedral service online and take some time to privately remember those who have fallen in defence of the freedoms that we all value.”

READ MORE: 'We must remember them' - councillor's call for covid-safe remembrance events

The traditional civic procession from the Guildhall to the Cathedral, the military parade and the ceremonial laying of wreaths at the war memorial outside the Cathedral have been cancelled.

There will be a service of remembrance at Worcester Cathedral on Sunday November 8, at which attendance will be by ticket only and numbers will be strictly limited.

Wreaths will be laid inside the Cathedral during the service and moved to the war memorial later in the day. The service will be streamed online for people to watch at home.

Worcester City Council’s armed forces champion, Cllr Chris Mitchell urged people to check the Royal British Legion’s advice for Remembrance Day events.

He said: "We all need to be conscious of the potentially wider impact on the community and, while it is difficult, perhaps look for alternative ways to mark our respect for the fallen.

"I would like to encourage Worcester residents and those veterans unable to attend to follow the RBL’s suggestions."

READ MORE: Gallery - How Worcestershire marked Remembrance Day in 2019

Worcester Cathedral will be streaming its Remembrance service online on Sunday November 8 from 10.15am.

It can be watched at www.facebook.com/WorcesterCathedral.

Elsewhere in the county, remembrance events in Malvern and Evesham have also been cancelled.

In Evesham, there will be a service and wreath laying at the war memorial but no parade or church service.

More details are being published later this week about plans for the rest of the county.

More ideas are included on the British Legion's website: www.britishlegion.org.uk, including details of how to support the annual Poppy Appeal if you are unable to buy a poppy in the usual way.