Remembrance Sunday ceremony made history in Padiham

Padiham paid its respects on Remembrance Sunday in a ceremony that made history.
By Susan Plunkett
Published 10th Nov 2020, 12:32 BST
Updated 10th Nov 2020, 12:36 BST
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For the first time ever the wreath laying service was held at the bandstand in the town's Memorial Park which this year marks its 99th anniversary.

The service was led by Canon Mark Jones of St Leonard's Church, Padiham and those who attended included the Mayor and Mayoress of Padiham Coun. Vince Pridden and his wife Gillian.

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Arctic convoy veteran Jim Bates, who recently celebrated his 99th birthday, was there with close family members, to honour his fallen comrades. Sadly fellow veteran Ted Davidson was unable to attend due to illness.

Veteran Jim Bates at the Remembrance Sunday ceremony with the Mayor and Mayoress of Padiham Coun. Vince Pridden and his wife Gillian. (photo by Char Taylor)Veteran Jim Bates at the Remembrance Sunday ceremony with the Mayor and Mayoress of Padiham Coun. Vince Pridden and his wife Gillian. (photo by Char Taylor)
Veteran Jim Bates at the Remembrance Sunday ceremony with the Mayor and Mayoress of Padiham Coun. Vince Pridden and his wife Gillian. (photo by Char Taylor)

And while numbers of who could attend was restricted, the public, churches, fire service, local sports club, charity organisations and the Padiham Archive group were all represented.

The Mayor thanked everyone for their support and help in making the day possible, including councillors Chris Smith and Peter Haigh, bugler Leanne Martin and Brian Jeffries the piper.

Coun. Pridden also thanked volunteer marshalls Denise and Andrew Welfare, Jackie Haigh, Barbara and Adrian Taylor and Char Taylor.

Related topics:Mayor