Civic pride of Chelsea Pensioners

Chelsea Pensioners Denis Shiels and Richard Forbes added a splash of colour to Oldham Civic Centre yesterday.

They were resplendent in their scarlet frock coats when they were welcomed to the borough by Deputy Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Olwen Chadderton.

Mr Forbes (79) lived in Chorlton as a child and served 27 years with the Royal Marine Commandos and the Lancashire Fusiliers. He was seconded to the Trucial Oman Scouts and the Abu Dhabi Defence Force.

This is his fourth trip to Oldham representing the Chelsea Pensioners while Mr Forbes is visiting for the first time.

The 79-year-old served with REME (Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers) around the world and was also seconded to the Kuwaiti Army. The pair were the guests of the Royal British Legion and the Liaison of Ex-Services Association. Their packed, four-day programme includes taking part in the Remembrance Sunday Service, tonight’s Festival of Remembrance at the Queen Elizabeth Hall and tomorrow’s Uppermill Music Festival.

See Monday’s Evening Chronicle for coverage of Remembrance events.