Mansfield councillor Richard Tempest-Mitchell tells us why Remembrance Sunday is so important
Remembrance Sunday is getting nearer and this year it will be observed in Mansfield on Sunday 8 November at the Civic Centre.
Diane & Mark Sheldon with Coun Tempest-Mitchell at York | RTMCoun Richard Tempest-Mitchell discusses the important of this year’s Remembrance Sunday | MDC stock
As the District Councillor for Lindhurst Ward, I am honoured to serve as Mansfield District Council’s Armed Forces Champion. It is a role I take very seriously. Through our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, we recognise and support the entire armed forces family, including serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets and their families.
Over the past three years, I have been privileged to attend a number of events that have deepened my appreciation of the sacrifices made by those who serve our country.
In July this year, I attended, for the third year, the Mercian Regiment’s Annual Pilgrimage at Crich. The service takes place at the impressive Mercian Regiment Memorial Tower and commemorates the men and women of the regiments that now form the Mercian Regiment. This includes the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice over generations of service. The regiments are a family.
It is particularly important for communities like Mansfield and Ashfield to remember the local soldiers who served their country in times of conflict and the families who stood behind them.
More recently, I was humbled to represent Mansfield at The Rifles Association Annual Memorial Service at York Minster. There, I met Dianne and Mark Sheldon, the parents of Rifleman Adrian Sheldon.
Adrian was a Mansfield lad through and through, a devoted Mansfield Town supporter and a highly respected soldier. He lost his life while serving his country in Afghanistan.
Meeting Adrian’s parents brought home the true meaning of remembrance. Every November, we pause to honour those who served, but it becomes far more personal when you speak to those who have borne the loss of a loved one.
What humbled me most was the dignity and strength shown by Adrian’s family. Behind every serviceman and woman stands a family that has shared in their service, their challenges and, in some cases, their loss.
Dianne and Mark Sheldon, together with Adrian’s sister Amy, who is herself a serving soldier, have worked tirelessly in Adrian’s memory. Through fundraising and charitable work, they have raised thousands of pounds for organisations such as Help for Heroes since their loss. Their efforts ensure that Adrian’s legacy continues while supporting others within the armed forces community.
Their story reminds us why remembrance really does matter.
Mansfield has a proud record of support for the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal. Over the past three years, local people have donated close to £150,000, making Mansfield the top-performing town in Nottinghamshire year after year.
This year’s Poppy Appeal is launched on 23rd October. I would encourage everyone who can, to give generously. Every donation helps support serving personnel, veterans and families whose lives have been affected by military service.
As Remembrance Sunday approaches, let us remember not only those who served and sacrificed, but also never forget the families who continue to carry their memory forward.
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