Students, staff and visitors paid their respects to those who made sacrifices during conflict at Remembrance Day services across our campuses.
Apprentices and trainers were joined by former members of the armed forces and representatives from neighbouring industries at a service held for the first time at Reaseheath’s Engineering Apprenticeship Academy (REAA).
The tribute, held in front of our Hurleston Road training centre, was attended by 85 construction plant and bus and coach engineering apprentices, academy staff, special guests from Crewe 94 Sea Cadet Corps and representatives from neighbouring businesses The Blue Group and Hodson Crane Hire and Haulage.
The Message of Remembrance was read by Assistant Principal John Kendal, himself a former Royal Airforce Officer, who also welcomed special guests Bob Morton, a retired Royal Navy Chief Petty Officer, Corporal Andrew Donaldson, representing the Army, and Lieutenant Beverley Morton.
Ex servicemen who are now Advanced Technical Trainers at REAA, Matt Gallimore MBE, who served in the Navy for nine years, and former Royal Engineers Doug Leech and Robin Shepherd were also key to the ceremony.
Matt has worked with the Crewe 94 Sea Cadet Corps for many years and suggested that Bob, who is President of the unit, and Beverley, a long time supporter, should be invited.
Engineering Apprenticeship Manager Simon Bishop said: “This is the first time we’ve held a Remembrance service at REAA. It was a great success and I was delighted that so many apprentices, staff and guests attended. We are already looking forward to next year, when we plan to make the service even bigger and better.”
Our traditional service was held on main campus, with hundreds of students and staff gathering under the flagpole. The Message of Remembrance was read by Principal Marcus Clinton, and poignant poem ‘For the Fallen’ was read by six Level Three Uniformed Protective Services Diploma students.
The closing prayer was read by MC Chang, our College Chaplain.
Marcus said: “It is testament to Reaseheath values that so many of our students and staff came together to honour the memory of those who laid down their lives or who continue to endure the lasting impacts of conflict.”
