A silent tribute to the Duke of Edinburgh was observed in a private garden in Axminster yesterday (Saturday) as the funeral of Prince Philip was being held at Windsor Castle.

The ceremony was acknowledged by the chairman of the Axminster branch of the Royal British Legion, former mayor Mervyn Symes.

He was joined by submariner Luena Thomas, the daughter of Mrs Syme's wife, Jackie.

As reported previously in Nub News, plans are already well advanced for a double celebration when Axminster comes completely out of lockdown.

This year is the centenary of the founding of the Royal British Legion and a special parade is being organised by the Axminster branch to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the town's War memorial on the Minster Green.

This will be followed by a picnic on the Green to celebrate the end of lockdown.

Subject to the COVID-19 restrictions being lifted, the double celebration will take place on Saturday, July 17.

The day will start at 12noon with a parade through the town to the War Memorial led by the Royal British Legion followed by a short service conducted by the Legion Chaplain, the Reverend Geoffrey Walsh.

It is hoped a number of civic dignitaries will be in attendance, including the Mayor of Axminster, Cllr Jill Farrow, MP Neil Parish and a representative of the Lord Lieutenant of Devon.

Axminster Carnival Committee will be assisting with the picnic on the Minster Green which will be open to all residents of Axminster.

The events are being co-ordinated by the Legion chairman, Mervyn Symes, who said: "We want to make it a day to remember for the people of Axminster after such a difficult time."

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