Remembrance Day has occurred every year since 1919 and commemorates the British soldiers who gave their lives in various wars since World War One.

The tradition sees events take place across the country to mark the sacrifices made by UK and Commonwealth service men and women as well as their families.

The event is now closely associated with the Poppy Appeal which also takes place around Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday.

However, many might not know the full story behind why we celebrate and remember those lost in different wars and conflicts since the First World War.

READ MORE: Remembrance 2022: When to hold a 2-minute silence this week

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: PA - Poppy at football stand PA - Poppy at football stand (Image: PA)

What is Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday?

Remembrance Day marks the end of the First World War in 1918.

The event was first inaugurated by King George V in 1919 and commemorates those who gave their lives in the Great War, a year earlier.

The event has continued for over 100 years and remembers every soldier or serviceperson who made sacrifices in every war since.

Why is Remembrance Day on November 11?

Remembrance Day is on November 11 as this is when WWI officially ended.

The Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, and came into force at 11 am.

On Remembrance Day, people across the country take part in a two-minute moment of silence at 11 am.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: PA - Why is Remembrance Day on November 11?PA - Why is Remembrance Day on November 11? (Image: PA)

How do we celebrate Remembrance Day?

Remembrance Day is commemorated in a number of ways, including through ceremonies across the UK, poppy-wearing, and reflection on the stories of those who participated in conflicts.

Here's how people celebrate Remembrance Day:

Wearing poppies

While poppies did not become a Remembrance tradition until 1921, two years after the first Remembrance Day, they have since become an integral part of the commemoration.

The reason why the Poppy was chosen by Earl Haig, was because the poppy was the only flower left growing on the battlefields of France and Belgium once the fighting had stopped.

To find out more, please read: Remembrance Day: Why do we wear poppies?

Ceremonies 

Remembrance Ceremonies are held up and down the country in various town and city centres as well as churches.

These see soldiers, cadets, veterans, local and national politicians, and community leaders come together to honour the war dead.

The largest such event is at the Cenotaph in London where members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister, and even other party leaders lay wreaths and take part in a moment of silence.

Listening to stories

One way many people take part in remembrance is by listening to the stories of those being commemorated.