EVENTS to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of The Somme continued at the weekend with thousands attending memorials and parades in East Lancashire.

More than 10 per cent of the 19,000 men who were killed on July 1, 1916, came from the area and the poignant events ensured that their sacrifice was remembered.

In Blackburn yesterday a Freedom Parade saw the The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment march through the town after a regimental commemorative ceremony at the Cathedral.

Starting at Cathedral Square and led by The King’s Division Band the soldiers, in full dress and with bayonets fixed, were cheered on by hundreds of people, finishing at King George’s Hall, where they were greeted by the mayor, Hussain Akhtar.

Watching the march was Victoria Hindle, from Roe Lee, who had brought her grandchildren, Willow Archer, six and her brother Frankie, three.

She said: “It’s been brilliant to watch and I’ve been explaining to the children about the soldiers and their importance.

“They have enjoyed the music and seeing the uniforms.”

A military music concert by The King’s Division Band then took place in the Cathedral Quarter.

Many people wore vintage costumes for the Colne Remembers events on Saturday. Those taking part mustered at Colne Legion at 10.30am with the parade beginning at 10.45am and continued to Colne’s war memorial for a short service.

Volunteers form Colne Town Council erected 13 gazebos and 12 information banners around the town as part of the event.

A sold out commemorative concert took place at Accrington Town Hall on Saturday.

On July 5, In Memory of the Accrington Pals will be shown at the The Ballroom, Accrington Town Hall, £3 per person.

Call 01254 380293 for tickets.