Tribute to coach bomb victims

SURVIVORS and relatives involved in the M62 coach bombing 35 years ago will be attending a special memorial service tomorrow.

A total of 12 British soldiers and some family members were killed when 50lb of explosives tore through the back of an Army leave coach on February 4, 1974.

Among those killed was L/Cpl James John McShane (28), of Long Lane, and Fusilier Jack Hynes (19), from Age Croft, Alt.

The Oldham Liaison of Ex-Service Association recently appealed for members of the families of the soldiers who lost their lives, and other civilians, to take part in a dedication service at Hartshead Moor service station, near Brighouse.

As a result, an estimated 200 people, including eight from Oldham, are expected to attend the memorial which begins at 10.20am.

A service will be held at 11am with the Bishop of Wakefield, the Rt Rev Stephen Platten, and the Bishop of Beverley, the Rt Rev Martyn Jarrett.

A memorial plaque will be dedicated by the flagpoles of the westbound service station and a tree will be planted.

Performing on the day will be the Oldham Scottish Pipe Band, the Fusiliers Association and Chadderton Over 55’s Band.

Alan Noble, association chairman, said: “It is very important to have a memorial there as it is where British soldiers lost their lives.”

For more information call 0161-628 7799.