Veterans’ fears eased

WAR veterans have been reassured that their Remembrance Day service will not be disrupted by gas main roadworks.

Former soldier John Crompton, the chairman of Failsworth Historical Society, wrote to local councillors because the repairs are disrupting the Oldham Road junction with Ashton Road West in Failsworth.

He said: “There are cones and closures of the junction and main route, all opposite the Failsworth War Memorial and Gardens.

“As we are nearing the Armistice Day on November 11 and Remembrance Sunday Parade on November 14, I would urge that the contractors performing these works are instructed by the council to give them notice to ensure that the whole site and construction materials are completely cleared.”

Over 240 men from Failsworth lost their lives in the First World War, plus more in the Second World War, and last year police estimated 2,200 local people attended the Remembrance Day service.

He added: “This is in excess of 11 per cent of the total population of Failsworth. We anticipate that our attendance figures will be in the same region this year.”

A council spokesman said the work had been delayed but would be cleared in time, adding: “We can confirm British Gas is carrying out work to replace a section of gas main and repair a gas leak at Oldham Road and Ashton Road West.

“Highways inspectors have been in regular discussions with British Gas and they have been given assurances that the works will be completed by today.

“The original agreement was for British Gas to complete this work during half term. However, the gas main was discovered to be in a different location than anticipated. They worked last weekend to speed up the completion.”