Remembrance Sunday 2021: Whitworth

Photo: Mike Burgess

Wreaths were laid at Whitworth cenotaph

Whitworth residents’ young and old gathered on Sunday 14 November to remember those lost and injured during times of conflict.

Hundreds of people turned up to pay their respects at the Remembrance Sunday commemorations at Whitworth’s cenotaph, honouring the sacrifice of those who have served their country. A uniformed parade marched from Tong Lane, along Market Street towards the Memorial Gardens, Facit, led by Whitworth Vale and Healey Band.

The moving and thought-provoking service started at 10.40am led by Revd Joanna Watson of St Johns and St Bartholomew’s Churches followed by a reading from the Holy Gospel by the Town Mayor, Councillor Maureen Jones.

Wreaths were laid by the town mayor, county councillor, borough and town councillors, head boy and head girl of Whitworth Community High School, representatives of Lancashire Constabulary and Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service, past service personnel and other uniformed organisations such as Brownies and Scouts.

The last post was sounded by Mr Dave Tattersall, principal cornet for the Whitworth Vale and Healey Band. This was Dave’s 43rd consecutive year playing the last post and his rendition was note perfect, as every year. Residents stood for two minutes silence to remember those who are lost. The blessing and the national anthem closed the service before everyone was invited over the road to the Ashcroft for complimentary refreshments.

The organising committee would like to thank Rossendale Borough Council for covering the cost of employing a private traffic management company to allow the procession to continue this year. A huge thank you also to the volunteer marshals from the public who helped the procession run smoothly and Whitworth in Bloom who worked hard to ensure the gardens were looking at their best ready for the service. Without the help of these volunteers the future of the procession would be in danger.

If you can spare half an hour to help with future processions for Rushcart and Remembrance Sunday then please contact David Chorlton on 07939 218 266.

The Mayor of Whitworth, Councillor Maureen Jones, said: “I was honoured to represent our town this year during the Remembrance Sunday commemorations. It never ceases to amaze me that the Whitworth community turns out in such large numbers to pay their respects.

“It was clear that this year residents were grateful to be able to remember together in person. 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.”