AROUND 1,000 people gathered under grey skies and rain clouds to pay their respects at Royton War Memorial and mark 100 years since the end of World War One.
1855 (Royton) Squadron ATC led the parade from Radcliffe Street into Royton Park to the cenotaph in the memorial garden, where the annual service is held by the Royal British Legion (RBL).
And locals of all ages thronged to be part of the poignant event, which included the playing of the Last Post, a two-minute silence, readings, prayers, and hymns.
Wreaths were laid at the memorial by the RBL, the cadets, police, scouts, and other local groups and organisations.
Mark Hamilton, Squadron Leader, told the gathered crowd: “We printed 900 orders of service for today and we’ve handed them all out. I think we’re going to need 1,000 next year.
“Thank you so much for coming here today. It means a lot to us that you are here to remember with us.”
Carl Holly, Royton RBL president, added: “It is humbling to see so many people here today.
“100 years ago the guns fell silent. As a thank you to those who gave their lives, Royal British Legion has been organising events and campaigns across the country.
“Pebbles here by the memorial have been laid by 1st Royton Scouts, and so many other people have done their own tributes.
“We’ve had a lot of messages from people all over, with some who are on holiday sending us pictures of poppies they’ve made from seaweed and shells.
“Thank you for helping us thank them.”
A gathering was held after the service at Royton Cricket Club, with refreshments provided by the RBL.
My great uncle John Willie Wolstenholme is on your monument.
My father used to take me to the Tangle Hill Monument to rememberhim.
He is buried at Hooge Crater Cemetery near Ypres/Paschendaele.
The grave can be viewed on Commonwealth War graves site and Hooge crater site.
Always remembered by his family
Hello Les, On John’s CWWG it has an inscription from his daughter Edith from the 8th October 1993 which reads ” The search has ended I knew not where you lay Rest in peace dear father Edith 8th October 1993″ I am one of the researchers for the Royton Branch of the RBL and was unable to find a marriage for John and his effects went to his father. Do you know the surname of Edith and the connection?