YOUNGSTERS made their mark on Remembrance Sunday services when they gathered with veterans and volunteers to remember those whose lives have been lost at war.

At Wanstead War Memorial, High Street, Wanstead, cubs, brownies, scouts and guides were invited for the first time ever by the Royal British Legion’s Wanstead and Woodford Branch to be part of their poignant service.

Youngsters from the 19th Epping Forest Brownies, Cubs and Guides, the 47th Cubs and Scouts, the 4th Wanstead Brownies and the 1st Wanstead Guides, laid specially made posies on the memorial following the laying of the wreaths.

The Epping Forest unit sold poppies on High Street, Wanstead, on two previous Saturdays.

They filled seven collection buckets with cash for the cause.

Jeannette Briggs, akela of the 19th Epping Forest Cubs, said: “People were amazingly generous.

“Because of Afghanistan people want to help, they want to support the soldiers.”

She added that it was images of soldiers’ bodies being flown home from the war that drove so many youngsters to take part in the ceremony.

She said: “One of them said to me he was glad he did it.

“I was delighted that the Royal British Legion invited local children to take part this year.

“I have long felt that if the children don’t take part they don’t connect with Remembrance Day.”

Youngsters also joined in the service at Ilford War Memorial, Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park.

John Coombes, member of the Royal British Legion’s Barkingside branch, said: “It’s most important that they do learn and understand and try not to make the same mistakes in the future.”

For pictures and more on the borough’s Remembrance events, see Thursday’s Recorder.