Two minute silence to remember lives lost at war

The Town Hall clock strikes 11am.

People in Rochdale can pay their respects to those who lost their lives in past wars by taking part in a two minutes silence next Wednesday (11 November).

The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month marks the date that the First World War ended.

Maroons will be fired from the grounds of the parish church by the Town Hall to mark the beginning and end of the silence. The silence will be observed during a small service near the cenotaph.

The Mayor, Councillor Keith Swift said: "We have arranged for the maroons to be fired at 11am on Wednesday 11 November as a mark of respect for those who sacrificed their lives in the First World War and other conflicts.

“It is an important moment, when everyone can stand together and reflect on the price of freedom. If we are to maintain our peace and freedom, we must always remember. Remembrance events are always very poignant, full of dignity, respect and honour."

It is hoped that everyone in Rochdale will hear the shots which will have a range of three miles.

On Sunday (8 November), events to mark Remembrance Sunday will be held across the borough:

Rochdale
Ukrainian Club, Mere Street, Off Drake Street, Rochdale at 10.15am (Parade starts)
Cenotaph at 10.50am

Middleton
Factory Street at 10.15am (Parade starts)
Garden of Remembrance, Manchester Old Road at 10.45am

Heywood
Garden Street at 10.15am (Parade starts)
Cenotaph at 10.50am

Wardle
Village Square at 2.30pm (Parade starts)
Cenotaph at 3pm

Milnrow
Council Offices at 10.15am (Parade starts)
War Memorial at 10.45am

Littleborough
Council Offices, Hare Hill Park 10.30am (Parade starts)
Cenotaph at 10.55am