Sacrifice always in our hearts

Photo: Vincent Brown and Paul Sterritt

A WREATH is laid on behalf of Chelsea Pensioners John Walker and Denis Shiels at the Oldham war memorial.

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A RECORD number of Oldhamers came out in force on Remembrance Sunday to pay respect to those who gave their lives for their country.

This year’s service was even more poignant, marking as it did the 100th anniversary of the start of World War One.

Oldham Scottish Pipe Band led the march along Market Street to the war memorial and Rhiannon Ashworth bugled the last post before an impeccably observed minute’s silence.

Reverend Derek Palmer read the “Call to Rembrance” outside the old town hall, hymns were sung and prayers and readings made.

Wreaths were laid at the war memorial by dignitaries, servicemen, members of the emergency services and local community groups as a mark of respect to those who lost their lives.

Councillor Jim McMahon, leader of Oldham Council, said: “People across the borough have the deepest respect for all those who have given their lives for peace and security.

“Over recent years our war memorials have all been restored to their full glory so they look their best for this year’s Remembrance Day Service which marks the centenary of the start of World War One.”

Police Chief Supt Caroline Ball then led Oldham Mayor Fida Hussain and Lord Lieutenant’s Deputy Norman Stoller to the war memorial as the procession marched past for the final time.

Remembrance Sunday was marked at churches across the borough at Royton, Shaw, Failsworth, Chadderton and Lees.

Chadderton’s service had its best attendance ever with over 600 people present

Sean Fielding, who organised Failsworth’s service celebrated a crowd of more than 5,000 people. “It was fantastic. It was really impressive and was beyond all expectations.”