The BBC's Festival of Remembrance brought viewers to tears within minutes of Saturday night's broadcast from London's Royal Albert Hall, where senior members of the Royal Family joined veterans, serving personnel and their families for the annual event.
Hosted by Clive Myrie, the programme placed personal stories at the heart of the evening, with contributions from people who had served in conflict, relatives who had lost loved ones, and families living with the lasting effects of military service. The event also marked significant anniversaries linked to operations in Bosnia, the end of the Gulf War and the Iraq War.
Viewers share emotional reactions online
Just moments into the broadcast, viewers took to social media to share their thoughts, with many admitting they were reaching for the tissues.
"The one thing the BBC does correctly. The remembrance service at the Albert Hall," one viewer said, while another added, "It's that emotional time of the year again."
Someone else wrote, "Always an emotional evening." Another commented, "I put it on a few minutes late, and already I'm in tears!!! The courage of the people in the armed forces and their families never ceases to amaze me."
Musical tributes and theme of remembrance
One viewer shared, "10 minutes in and I'm already in tears. (especially at Tom O'Dell's When I Close My Eyes)," as another wrote, "Always in tears watching Festival of Remembrance."
Under the theme Places of Remembrance, the programme explored the settings people turn to when remembering someone they have lost. These ranged from national memorials and familiar landmarks to gardens, football pitches and quiet spots in everyday life. People from across the UK shared how those places helped them feel connected to loved ones who had died.
Musical performances came from Alfie Boe, James Emmanuel, Mica Paris, Rita Wilson and Tom Odell. They were joined by The Band of The Royal Air Force Regiment and The Bands of HM Royal Marines Portsmouth and Collingwood.
Closing tribute
The closing silence and falling poppies paid tribute to all those who have served and made sacrifices.
The BBC's Festival of Remembrance is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
