I AM a firm patriot who loves my country.

It is packed with history and heritage and should be valued by all of its citizens.

But I also love the fact that we live in a democratic society and are allowed to have a freedom of expression.

You only have to look at recent examples of other countries who have taken to extreme measures to get rid of their dictators to see that we should feel privileged and blessed that our human rights are still intact.

That it is why I think it is so important to quietly stand still this weekend to remember those who have ensured that we still have those human rights.

The millions of men and women who have died serving our country should never be forgotten and it is right that they are honoured every November.

Respects will be made both tomorrow (Armistice Day) and on Remembrance Sunday, with both young and old observing the short silence.

A poppy worn on the lapel is the symbol of remembrance, so for FIFA to ban the England football team from wearing them on their shirts during their match against Spain on Saturday is nothing short of a disgrace.

FIFA's stance is that shirts should not carry "political, religious or commercial messages".

So for them to say that wearing a poppy is any of the above is just absurd.

It is a mark of respect for those who have died serving our country - simple as that.

Thankfully, FIFA backtracked yesterday (Wednesday) by allowing the players to wear them on black armbands, so at least they will by on display, but their stupid rule regarding shirts will still be adhered.

England under-21 manager Stuart Pearce, who embodies patriotism, raised a good point that, whether or not you have anything emblazoned on your shirt, it is what is in your heart that matters.

It still does not take away the short-sightedness of FIFA's decision, but at least the Armed Forces will know that the team will always be grateful for what they have done, just like the rest of the country.

• To read about what the county is doing as part of the Remembrance weekend, see today's Hereford Times.

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Thanks guys!