Upson leads the way

West Ham United came to a standstill at 11am today in honour of Armistice Day.

Staff at Chadwell Heath and the Boleyn Ground marked two minutes silence to remember those who had given their lives in service of the country. It followed on from the activities around Remembrance Sunday when a special plaque was unveiled in memory of the 13th Battalion (West Ham) of the Essex Regiment which fought in the First World War.

A minute's silence and ceremonial wreath-laying was also staged before kick-off against Everton. After the match, captain Matthew Upson may have been disappointed with the result but it did not stop him meeting with soldiers from the Royal Anglian Regiment.

Upson met with the troops in the Legends Lounge at the Boleyn Ground. The England defender was only too happy to meet chat, sign autographs and pose for pictures. He said: "It was good to acknowledge the sacrifices made by the soldiers, of which everyone is very grateful for. It is also very important that we remember those who have given so much for this country in the past."