FOOTBALL fans watching Accrington Stanley’s home game against league leader Wycombe Wanderers were treated to a special commemorative event.

The Mid Pennine Arts (MPA) hosted the event based on the infamous Christmas truce of 1914.

Fans were welcomed to the ground by the East Lancashire Concert Band. Inside the ground, the truce community choir, formed as part of the project and attracting members from across the county, were singing songs recalling those 1914 events.

A special free souvenir programme was distributed and artwork created during the project was displayed in the Sports Bar.

Flags had been designed by students at Hollins Technology College and featured the colours of both teams along with images connected to the truces and words of hope and peace.

The truce project recalls the Western Front at Christmas 1914 when something wondrous occurred, as soldiers from both allied and German sides stopped fighting and instead came together in peaceful activities which included playing football, singing carols, and exchanging gifts.

Nick Hunt, creative director of MPA said: “In 1914, as Accrington sent its sons to war, Stanley was already a famous institution.”

“We are very grateful for the support of the club.”

Robert Houseman, Accrington Stanley director, said: “Accrington Stanley Football Club is delighted to be associated with the Christmas Truce event and is proud to have hosted a commemoration of the football match that took place on Christmas Day 1914.”