Huge Accrington Pals commemorations planned for Battle of Somme 100th anniversary

An inaugural Armed Forces Day Prom will take place on Saturday, June 25 at Oakhill Park in Accrington.

It will be pay tribute to all armed forces servicemen and women, past and present, especially the Accrington Pals, on armed forces day.

The day will include the first ever Pals Prom, with a last night of the prom style performance by the East Lancashire Concert Band.

It will provide a fitting finale to the days activities that will be organised in partnership with the Royal British Legion.

Anne Ellwood, chairperson of the Accrington Pals Prom Group, said: "The day will start with family fun activities and stalls, plus music from local groups.

"This is the very first event that is being organised by the Accrington Pals Prom Group, who are a committed group of volunteers aiming to ensure this becomes a regular event for the town."

The group currently meet every month and are keen to involve the community in the event.

They are also looking for local businesses to contribute and they are invited to contact Anne on 07805 923075.

Their next meeting is on Tuesday January 5, at 7pm at Accrington Library.

Mrs Ellwood said: "The park provides the ideal location for the event with its beautiful bandstand being a focal point.

"The group would welcomes any support as we actively work towards making this an historic day."

Another event, the Accrington Pals Centenary Commemoration will take place on July 1 at 7.20 am.

A group, including the Mayor and Mayoress of Hyndburn will visit the Accrington Pals Memorial, Sheffield Woodland, Serre, Northern France to commemorate the centenary of 720 Accrington Pals advancing on the front-line.

The group will be accompanied by Members of the Great War Society.

There will be a service conducted by lay preacher Judith Addison with wreath laying and a presentation of Books of Honour to the Mairies of Bapaume and Puiseaux.