A BENCH to ensure soldiers who died in the Battle of the Somme ‘will never be forgotten’ has been installed in Great Harwood’s Memorial Park.

Gilbert Parkinson, a retired lorry driver who grew up in the town, has spent more than £1,000 to commission the bench with a plaque in ‘dedication’ to his grandfather who died in the First World War.

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The 79-year-old, who now lives in Cleveleys near Blackpool, said: “I didn’t expect the bench to create such a fuss but the response has been amazing and I’m really chuffed.

“I put the bench in the park in dedication to my grandfather William Henry Parkinson who died on July 1, 1916, at the Battle of the Somme just over 100 years ago.

“He died 21 years before I was born and I never knew him, but I learned such a lot from my grandmother, who told me all about his exploits and he has always been an inspiration to me.

“I have always respected what he did, considering he was an Australian and fought a war that wasn’t his own. He has been my hero for years.

“I also want the bench to be a memorial to all our courageous armed forces past, present and in future wars.

“I hope that people like it, and it can always be there as a reminder that we will remember them, and they will never be forgotten.”

Residents and councillors have praised Mr Parkinson’s efforts in remembering those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and believe it to be a ‘perfect tribute’ to the soldiers who gave their lives.

Phil Dewhurst, who runs Great Harwood Past and Present, said: “It’s such a lovely gesture and it’s something that I believe has lifted the town as well.

“There have been some really nice comments about it and I’ve heard people say how it would be nice if we could get a few more.”

Cllr Gareth Molineux, who represents Overton, said: “I think the bench is absolutely beautiful and a perfect tribute to the soldiers who gave their lives.

“Great Harwood soldiers don’t get enough credit for the job they did in the Accrington Pals and there were so many men who volunteered to fight from our region.

“I welcome the bench and I’m sure that families will appreciate what Gilbert has done.”