HEXHAM's first peace walk took place this afternoon (Saturday, November 12).

Organised with Hexham Town Twinning Committee and Churches Together in Hexham, the town council said beforehand that the purpose of the peace walk event was "to demonstrate that we are united with people in our twin towns as well as with the local Ukrainian community in showing our desire and support for peace as well as remembering all those caught up in conflict around the world".

Crowds gathered at the bandstand at the Sele before they set off on the 90-minute walk, which took in the War Memorial, Hexham Community Centre, the Old Gaol, and the town's railway station.

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There were short readings and musical presentations at these places.

There was also an opportunity for walkers to join the end of the annual peace vigil at St Mary’s Catholic Church, organised by Churches Together in Hexham.

Participants walked in conjunction with Hexham’s twin towns of Noyon and Metzingen, with similar events taking place there this weekend.

Cathy Booth, a member of the Hexham Town Twinning Association committee and who came up with the idea, said: "We thought we needed to mark something with our twin towns who are also feeling the same about the war in Ukraine as well as remembering our dead from the world wars on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.

"We thought it would be good to show unity and to reflect the desire for peace."

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Cllr Lee Williscroft-Ferris, chair of the Remembrance Events committee, said he was pleased with the turnout.

"One thing this town council is clear about is that it wants to be inclusive as possible for people," he said. 

"There's basically something for everyone this weekend, which is how it should be."

Hexham's annual Remembrance Sunday parade will depart from the Market Place at 10.40am tomorrow.

Mayor of Hexham Kennedy will address those gathered at the cenotaph and wreaths will be laid by representatives of groups present. For the first time, Cllr Kennedy will also pay specific respect to those with local links who have died while serving their country.

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