Every year millions of wreaths are laid around the country on November 11 to mark the anniversary of Armistice Day and to remember those who fought, and those who were lost, in conflicts over the years.

Swindon is no exception and on Sunday, crowds gathered around the town’s cenotaph and wreaths of poppies were laid to mark the occasion.

One man who laid a wreath was Mitchell Bryan, 33, a freemason who was born and bred in Swindon.

“There is something so poignant about Remembrance Sunday. It's a duty that should fall to all of us every year. I felt honoured to not only be paying my personal respects, but also the respects of the 60 members of Royal Sussex,” he said.

“There is always a huge sense of togetherness that is almost indescribable. Whether you're religious or not, there's always a feeling of great understanding and pride that should make us appreciate the day because of those who gave their lives during present and past conflicts.”

Swindon Advertiser: Mitchell Bryan (centre) has laid wreaths before in Old Town.Mitchell Bryan (centre) has laid wreaths before in Old Town. (Image: Mitchell Bryan)

This is not the first time that Mr Bryan has laid a wreath on Remembrance Day though as he previously wreath on behalf of the members of Royal Sussex Lodge of Emulation No.355, a local Masonic Lodge based in Old Town.

Despite this, the poignant and sentimental action he performs is never lost on him, no matter how many times he does it.

“I feel it's one’s personal duty to pay respects on behalf all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom,” remarked Mr Bryan.

“It's that one time a year, where the people of Swindon come together to honour those who gave their lives during the Great War and World War Two.”

The duty of laying the freemason wreath in November usually falls to the Worshipful Master of the Lodge as one of his duties.

“This is my year as Master, so it felt more important than ever to be at the cenotaph,” said Mr Bryan.

Swindon Advertiser: The service took place on Sunday and was attended by hundreds.The service took place on Sunday and was attended by hundreds. (Image: Mitchell Bryan)

This particular Lodge has been running since 1818, making it the oldest working Lodge in the province.

Mr Bryan was born and raised in High Wick but moved to Chiswick, West London for work in 2021 and now lives there with his boyfriend, Tom.

“I moved to London for work during the pandemic, but I remain a big fan of supporting local business within Swindon, especially in Old Town,” he added.

There were 60 wreaths laid at the weekend at Swindon’s cenotaph in a service that was attended by hundreds of Swindonians.

Swindon Mayor Abdul Amin said: “It was great to see so many people from the community coming together to pay their respects and to remember all those people who have lost their lives to give future generations peace and security.”