THOUSANDS of people paid their respects across Halesowen and Sandwell to the fallen.

On Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day yesterday (Wednesday) services at churches and war memorials were well attended.

Young and old stood in silence and remembered the sacrifices that servicemen and women had made throughout the centuries for their country.

Families turned out in force to see parades in Halesowen, Cradley, Cradley Heath and Oldbury with the Boys Brigade, Scouts, Guides, Army, RAF and Sea Cadets all taking part.

Chairman of Cradley Royal British Legion Norman Catton said: "We had 600 on parade with the Legion, Scouts, Guides and cadets all involved on Sunday and we marched to St Peter's Church where Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy Richard Sturman took the salute, as usual it was an emotional day where the community came together."

The Bishop Of Dudley Right Reverend Graham Usher took the service.

He said: "Holding a silence is our only answer, it’s a silence full of regrets, relief, reconciliation and resolve.

"Regrets at past failings and relief at past victories. But also knowing that without reconciliation with those who have been our enemies there can be no peaceable future."

He added: "Without a resolve to find paths to peace we just repeat the cycle of death and despair."

Politicians from all parties attended the various services to pay their respects with Margot James MP attending Cradley's parade and James Morris MP in Halesowen.

Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris said: "My wife and I attend several services each year across the constituency as part of Remembrance Day.

"It was a very poignant morning which stood as a timely reminder of the incredible sacrifices that our brave service men and women have made. It was heartening to see so such a huge number of residents come to pay their respects."

Cradley Heath and Old Hill Councillor John Tipper, who attended three services across Sandwell, said: "It was as ever a dignified tribute to the many people from Rowley Regis who sacrificed their lives or their health in the defence of our nation.

"I was particularly pleased to see just how many people came out on the day to share in the occasion."