An online audience of more than 10,000 worldwide tuned in to Ajex’s remembrance ceremony.

Narrated by broadcaster Natasha Kaplinsky, it included contributions by national chairman Mike Bluestone, who expressed sadness that “we could not meet together in person at the Cenotaph this year”. He was pleased, however, that the ceremony could at least take place virtually.

Other speakers included Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and Board of Deputies president Marie van der Zyl.

The ceremony also included prayers, wreath laying and a two-minute silence. Buglers from the Rifles Regiment played the Last Post and Reveille. Pupils from Nancy Reuben Primary sang Adon Olam.

The Queen and Boris Johnson sent letters of support before the event and veterans hosted Zoom Q&As as part of the Ajex 2020 campaign, which also involved photos, pledges and stories on social media.

Mike Bluestone said that in the current crisis, “we were more determined than ever to honour those that served. May we all be able to meet again to parade next year at the Cenotaph."

www.youtube.com/AJEX_JMA