Coronavirus in Scotland: Government announces Edinburgh and Lothians Remembrance events will not be able to take place

All annual national Remembrance Sunday events across Edinburgh excluding some church services are cancelled, including the ceremony at the Garden of Remembrance in Princes Street Gardens, in accordance with the Government’s new guidelines.

Restrictions within the 5 tier protection levels across Scotland which will take place from November 2 onwards means that remembrance events on November 11 have been stifled.

Under the new system, outdoor events of more than 6 people from 2 different households are not permitted in local authority areas which fall within protection levels 2, 3 and 4.

This means that organised local Remembrance events will not be able to take place unless they are held in a place of worship.

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In a statement released by the Scottish government today, it states: “Whilst we appreciate how disappointing this may be, we have taken this decision based on expert advice to protect the health and well-being of the people of Scotland.

“It is right, however, that we remember the sacrifices of those across Scotland and the UK, the Commonwealth and our Allied Nations, which ensured the relative peace and freedoms we enjoy today.”

The Scottish Government has offered alternative ways in which members of the public can honour the fallen such as joining the two minutes silence at 11am on Sunday 8 November from your doorstep as part of your community.

People can also still attend a service at a place of worship subject to maximum of 50 attendees in levels 0-3 or a maximum of 20 attendees in level 4.

“We would encourage everyone to take this opportunity to explore innovative approaches to Remembrance events within the restrictions that are in place.

“We appreciate your patience and co-operation during what has been an uncertain time and hope this guidance can at least help provide some certainty for planning as we head into the Remembrance period,” added the Government.

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