KET Chairman Angus Barclay was honoured to attend Norwich Cathedral's service for VJ Day 80th anniversary commemorations in the presence of Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. The above photo ©BBC
Angus tells us that the cathedral was absolutely full (c 1,000 people) and wreathes were laid by the Duke of Gloucester and Lord Dannatt. Lady Dannatt was there in her role as Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk. On his arrival at the Cathedral, Angus was asked to do interviews with both BBC and ITV, as were the Dean and other guests including, notably, Pauline Simpson, who is central to the Far East Prisoners of War (FEPOW) association and who had been behind the organisation of the service itself.
Angus was delighted to be mentioned briefly in the coverage and a picture of his uncle, Lt Charles Barclay, who was was very sadly killed at the Battle of Kohima, was shown. Angus was very touched that the Battle of Kohima was referenced in the ITV coverage which can be seen here - Angus at 0:00:52
Angus took part in the service at the cathedral and appears at 1:10:50 in the recording, giving a reading from the Book of Jeremiah.
Angus tells us that the sermon was delivered by Bishop Peter Eagles who spoke at length on Kohima - it was, by all accounts, a wonderful sermon.
