The community of Soham came together this Remembrance Sunday to pay its respects to those who served in the two World Wars and later conflicts.  

A parade set off from Soham Village College and made its way to the war memorial in time for the silence and wreath-laying. 

Deputy Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Jane Lewin Smith, representatives from the Royal British Legion, civic dignitaries and various community organisations were involved in the commemorations.   

Cllr David Woricker, the Mayor of Soham, said: “There is always a wonderful and respectful turnout for Remembrance Sunday here.  

“It is a very moving occasion, and the Royal British Legion make a real effort to get young people involved through our community groups as well. 

“We’re also fortunate enough to have a D-Day veteran Eric Jenkins attend, and he was with us with his family.” 

The Remembrance Sunday parade set off from Soham Village College and made its way to the war memorial.The Remembrance Sunday parade set off from Soham Village College and made its way to the war memorial. (Image: Royal British Legion Soham Branch) For residents of Soham, a rail disaster that happened 80 years ago is also on their minds at times of remembrance.  

On June 2, 1944, a fire developed on the leading wagon of an ammunition train carrying high explosive bombs.  

The Soham Remembrance Sunday parade making its way through the town.The Soham Remembrance Sunday parade making its way through the town. (Image: Royal British Legion Soham Branch)

The train crew detached the wagon from the rest of the train and were drawing it away when the cargo exploded.  

The fireman of the train and the signalman at Soham signalbox were killed and several other people injured.  

The driver, Benjamin Gimbert, and fireman, James Nightall, were both awarded the George Cross for preventing further damage which would have occurred if the rest of the train had exploded. 

Cllr Woricker added: “There’s still a strong feeling of respect in Soham not just for those who lost their lives in wars, but also to those who directly protected the town in that disaster.”  

Mayor of Soham Cllr David Woricker places a wreath at the war memorial.Mayor of Soham Cllr David Woricker places a wreath at the war memorial. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) The war memorial service on Remembrance Sunday included the two-minute silence. The war memorial service on Remembrance Sunday included the two-minute silence. (Image: Royal British Legion Soham Branch) This year also marks 80 years since the Soham rail disaster. This year also marks 80 years since the Soham rail disaster. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) The Soham parade for Remembrance Sunday 2024.The Soham parade for Remembrance Sunday 2024. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) Deputy Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Jane Lewin Smith places a wreath at the Soham war memorial on Remembrance Sunday 2024.Deputy Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Jane Lewin Smith places a wreath at the Soham war memorial on Remembrance Sunday 2024. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) Cadets were among the participants of the Soham Remembrance Sunday parade. Cadets were among the participants of the Soham Remembrance Sunday parade. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) Mike Donoghue, Chairman of the Soham Branch of the Royal British, places a wreath at the war memorial. Mike Donoghue, Chairman of the Soham Branch of the Royal British, places a wreath at the war memorial. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) Wreaths were placed from various organisations at the Soham war memorial. Wreaths were placed from various organisations at the Soham war memorial. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) The town of Soham paid its respects on Remembrance Sunday.The town of Soham paid its respects on Remembrance Sunday. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) Wreaths and poppies now surround the war memorial at Soham.Wreaths and poppies now surround the war memorial at Soham. (Image: Cllr Elizabeth Johnston) The community of Soham came together to pay its respects for remembrance. The community of Soham came together to pay its respects for remembrance. (Image: Royal British Legion Soham Branch)