Liberal Democrat leader Howard Sykes calls for recognition of peacemakers

Liberal Democrat Group Leader on Oldham Council, Councillor Howard Sykes MBE

The Leader of the Opposition and Liberal Democrat Group Leader on Oldham Council, Councillor Howard Sykes MBE, has written to the Assistant Cabinet Member responsible for First World Commemorations Councillor Cath Ball asking for her help to mark the contribution of Oldham’s peacemakers and peacekeepers

Councillor Sykes explained: “2018 will mark two special anniversaries - the centenary of the Armistice ending the First World War and the 70 anniversary of the first United Nations peacekeeping mission.”

“Recent research by volunteers at the Oldham Historical Research Group has identified over 100 Oldham men in the First World War who refused military service because of their consciences.

“Although we have rightly commemorated the sacrifice of our armed forces personnel, I also think that we should recognise that these men also displayed great courage and endured sacrifices in making the difficult choice to be a conscientious objector and pacifist.

“Veterans from Oldham must have also served in some of the United Nations peacekeeping missions that have taken place around the world since 1948. Again I feel that it is important that we mark their important contribution to world peace as peacekeepers wearing the UN blue helmet."

In his email to Councillor Ball, Councillor Sykes has asked the Council to work with relevant groups to establish memorials to conscientious objectors, pacifists and peacekeepers from Oldham, and to hold commemorative services for them.

Councillor Sykes also asks for the Council to consider establishing a town centre peace trail and an exhibition in the new Oldham Museum.

He said: “Peace trails exist in Birmingham, Bradford, and Manchester with the locations of relevant events and places relating to peace-making, peace-keeping and social justice. We already have a Pals Trail, now I would like to see a Peace Trail.

"It would also be good to see a permanent display to Oldham’s peace movement within the new Oldham Museum.

"Both would help to raise Oldham’s profile as a Borough working for peace, and, as this represents good news, let’s celebrate it.”