READING Borough Council has announced that it is holding a Civic Memorial Service to mark the passing of The Queen on Sunday, September 18, followed by a national moment of reflection.
It has also announced that public screenings of Her late Majesty’s funeral will be held on Monday, September 19.
Reading’s mayor, Cllr Rachel Eden, has invited residents of the town to pay their tributes to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at the memorial service, which will be held at Reading Minster from 2pm on Sunday, September 18.
The service will be led by the Bishop of Reading, with attendance by the High Sheriff of Berkshire among other dignitaries.
The council also respectfully asks that residents arrive in good time for the service to take their seats by 1.45pm.
Later on the same evening, a national moment of reflection has been called to mourn the passing of The Queen and to reflect on her life and legacy.
It will take place at 8pm across the UK and the world, with the mayor of Reading and council leader, Cllr Jason Brock, leading the council’s reflection outside the civic offices on Birdge Street.
Residents are invited to attend this event, or to mark the reflection privately at home, in the street with neighbours, or together with community groups and organisations.
Both the memorial service and the moment of reflection will be streamed via Reading Borough Council’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.
On the day of The Queen’s funeral, Monday, September 19, the council is screening coverage of the event in Forbury Gardens.
The gates will open from 9.30am, but a free ticket will be required to enter, and while limited seating is available, but attendees are recommended to bring their own seating.
Dedicated seating will be provided for those with disabilities or specific physical requirements.
The screening will begin at 10.30am.
Special dispensation has been made that those wishing to stream the funeral service in community groups, religious groups, clubs, or organisations to screen the event without needing to purchase a TV Licence.
Reading Borough Council Leader Jason Brock said: “Reading turned out in force at the Proclamations on Sunday following the news of the passing of our longest serving Monarch.
“Those who attended on Sunday will agree there was a real sense togetherness and community at both ceremonies.
“As the nation mourns, we felt it was important to offer Reading residents opportunities to come together again and pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.”
He continued: “It has always been the case that people find strength in togetherness, especially at difficult moments, and Reading has a history of doing so.
“The Civic Memorial Service on Sunday at 2pm, the National Moment of Reflection at 8pm and the screening of Her Majesty’s funeral at the Forbury Gardens are the opportunities to do that once again, and will be sad and solemn occasions for us all.”
Cllr Rachel Eden said: “As well as sadness, there was also a deep sense of gratitude on Sunday for the service of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and there was a real feeling of unity on Sunday as many people in town were able to gather together for the Proclamations.”
“I invite Reading residents to join me again at Sunday’s Civic Memorial Service at Reading Minster.
“The National Moment of Mourning at 8pm on Sunday will also be an opportunity for residents, families, neighbours and communities to gather in silence.”
She said that while many may wish to mark the event in their own homes or streets or at local community events, they were invited to join her outside the Civic Offices, where she will be marking the minute’s silence.
“The following day I know many will prefer to watch the funeral in their own homes, but for those who wish to share what will be a difficult day together, you are most welcome to the screening at The Forbury Gardens.”
For tickets to the screening, visit: www.whatsonreading.com
More information at about TV license dispensation can be found via: www.tvlicensing.co.uk
