Whitworth has record turnout for a special Centenary Remembrance Sunday service

On Sunday 11 November, Whitworth residents’ young and old gathered to remember those lost and injured during times of conflict.

The town’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations began with a procession along the main road to the Memorial Gardens in Facit, led by Whitworth’s Vale and Healey Brass Band. 

A moving and thought-provoking Service of Remembrance took place around the Cenotaph, led by the Mayor’s Chaplain, Rev Father Chris McGrane of St Mary and St Anselms RC Churches. 

The two-minute silence was recognised, and numerous wreaths were laid. 

Following the Service of Remembrance, everyone was invited to cross the road for light, warm refreshments at the Civic Hall (The Riverside).

Estimates suggest around 1,000 people attended, those in attendance included Whitworth’s Mayor, Councillor Mrs Madeline De Souza who read a bible passage. the local uniformed organisations, Town, Borough and County Councillors, war veterans, representatives of the town’s schools, places of worship and community organisations, Lancashire Constabulary and Fire Service, and members of the public.

The Mayor of Whitworth, Councillor Madeline De Souza, said: “Every year it never ceases to amaze me that the Whitworth community turns out in such large numbers, even the rain didn’t dampen spirits.  On behalf of the myself and the Town Council, I thank all who attended, and all who helped with the organisation to make it such a wonderful, memorable occasion.” 

During the service, a presentation was made to Mr Dave Tattersall, principal cornet of Whitworth Vale and Healey Band, in recognition that he has played the last post for Whitworth remembrance Services for 40 years this year.  Following the service two new Acer trees were unveiled which had been planted by the Whitworth Horticultural Society in memory of those who fought in the First and Second World Wars.

In this special centenary year, the Whitworth community extended the commemorations to the whole weekend, starting with Pack Up Your Troubles, the sell out event on Saturday evening at the Riverside. 

On Sunday, following the service, St Bartholomew’s Church opened their doors for a World War One themed café and then in the evening, Lobden Golf Club hosted the viewing of the lighting of the beacon. 

 

 

The temporary beacon, located on top of Brown Wardle, was lit as part of a national tribute “Battles over - ringing out for peace”. 

After the beacon lighting the bells rang out for peace at St Bartholomew’s Church.