CHANGES to Remembrance events in Maldon have been announced as the second national lockdown approaches.

Poppy wreaths have been laid at the offices of Maldon District Council (MDC) in a ceremony ahead of lockdown that has been filmed for the council's website.

Vice-chairman of the council, Councillor Penny Channer, laid a wreath at the ceremony at the council's Princes Street offices alongside Deputy to the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Dr James Bettley.

On Remembrance Day (Wednesday, 11 November) the district council will be posting a pre-recorded video on social media of the service, which includes a recital of the Exhortation by the council's River Bailiff, Nigel Harmer.

As Maldon Nub News reported last week, MDC is asking residents to mark the two minutes' silence at 11 am on 11 November on their doorsteps as part of a national act of pride and respect.

It has also been decided that Maldon Town Mayor, Councillor Abdul Hafiz, will not now be laying a wreath on Sunday (8 November) at the town centre memorial as planned.

Instead everyone is encouraged to watch the online service from the safety of their homes - you can access the service on the Maldon Town Council website here.

The town council service will include pre-recorded footage featuring the experiences of World War Two veterans from the area. The names of all those who perished in the war will be read out in the service.

MDC is also reminding residents not to forget the Royal British's Legion Poppy Appeal.

An MDC spokesperson said: "Like so many things this year, the Poppy Appeal has to adapt to the threat of Covid-19 and they are asking the public to support them like never before, because every poppy counts."

There are more details of how to donate on the Royal British Legion website here.