As Remembrance Sunday approaches, a county councillor is calling upon Tyne Valley residents to show their respect to the fallen - albeit in a slightly different, Covid secure way.

County councillor Gordon Stewart, who presents Prudhoe South, said: “Residents and businesses throughout Tynedale usually turn out in big numbers to show their respect to those who have served in the armed forces, particularly those who made the greatest sacrifice by giving their lives, and this show of respect is well received by the armed forces family.

“With the restrictions in place, I would like to encourage as many people as possible to display poppies in their windows, possibly colouring in drawings.”

Last year, the town came together to pay tribute to those who died in past conflicts with a parade, which saw BBC Look North presenter, Carol Malia, in her role as Deputy Lieutenant of Northumberland, take to the streets.

Hexham’s former mayor and county councillor, Tom Gillanders, confirmed that a “much more scaled-back” show of solidarity would take place in the market town.

He said a service will still take place, but with social distancing and face mask wearing compulsory for attendees, and the crowd reduced. As per previous years, there will be no band or appearances from other community organisations, but sole individuals will leave wreaths on the cenotaph.

On the Saturday, the day before, poppy crosses will be laid at the war graves in St Andrews Cemetery, on West Road.

Typically hundreds gather for the town’s annual act of remembrance, which last year included a parade from Argyle Terrace to the war memorial, with members of the public joining soldiers from 3 Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, the Army cadets and air force cadets.

Other outdoor acts of remembrance, in place of church services, have been confirmed at Allenheads War Memorial, Lych Gate, St Cuthbert’s Church, Allendale, Keenley War Memorial and Lych Gate, Holy Trinity Church, Whitfield. Across the district, Remembrance services are at the heart of local communities.