One to remember: Anya Parry-Slack lays a wreath

‘Two years ago, I had scarcely heard of Quakers.’

by Anya Parry-Slack 21st November 2025

On Remembrance Sunday, at 10:50am, I found myself standing alongside British Legion ex-servicemen, soldiers, VIPs, guides, sea cadets, and Karina Wells, the president of Exeter Lions. I was holding the only white wreath at Exeter city council’s Remembrance service. I was accompanied by local Quaker and former city councillor Ian Martin, who was there to support me. It took us both by surprise when the Rifles Regiment parade commander barked out ‘Wreath bearers step forward!’ I was feeling rather exposed. Two years ago, I had scarcely heard of Quakers.