Ready to remember fallen
THERE are Remembrance events taking place across the borough, as Rochdale comes together to remember those lost in war.
Along with the annual parades, of which there are seven, there will also be a memorial bike ride, a musical concert and a commemorative poppy display.
The annual Festival of Remembrance was already held at the town hall in a nostalgic evening that involved performances by military bands, parades and poignant speeches.
More than 150 people, including some Second World War veterans, packed into the Great Hall to enjoy music from the Scots Guards Association Pipes and Drums and The Band and Corps of Drums of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (Lancashire).
Caen Matthews, chairman of the Rochdale branch of The Royal British Legion, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people coming together to support the armed forces’ family and remember the sacrifices of so many brave men and women.
“It is important that we remember why we remember. Veterans today need our support, as they as always have done. Lest we forget.”
The Rochdale town centre parade on Sunday will begin at 10.15am on Yorkshire Street, while others will be held in Littleborough, Norden, Milnrow, Wardle, Heywood and Middleton.
Shoppers at Rochdale Exchange can also join in and pay their respects at a commemorative poppy display made by school children and members of The Royal British Legion.
Margaret Smith, Rochdale Town Centre Chaplain, said: “It has been wonderful to bring these groups together along with the schools of Rochdale to commemorate Remembrance and Armistice Days.
“This is a great example of a community working together in harmony and encouraging everyone from small children to our more mature residents.”
The hanging feature, comprising thousands of handmade poppies, required help from youngsters from Harwood Park School, Newlands School, St Peter’s School and St Gabriel’s School.
A musical concert will take place at the town hall on Sunday, telling the true story of Northern Ireland’s only Victoria Cross, James Magennis, in aid of the Mayor’s charity appeal.
With words and music by comedian Jimmy Cricket, the show (‘Let’s Hear It For The Wee Man’) will star Coronation Street’s Charles Lawson and Sue Devaney - beginning at 4pm.
There will also be an annual Remembrance Sunday motorbike ride to create a ‘Ring of Red’ in tribute to the armed forces, departing from Birch services at 1pm.
The event raises money for different armed forces charities and organisers are encouraging riders and spectators from Rochdale and beyond to attend - with over 2,000 bikes expected.