GREAT Harwood’s Memorial Park has a new avenue of cherry trees to keep up its tradition of spring blossom in memory of service personnel who died in conflict.

The 11 ornamental saplings were planted earlier this year at the Hyndburn town’s green space as part of a First World War commemoration project.

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Ian Wilkinson, chairman of the Friends of Memorial Park, stressed the avenue was to remember all those soldiers, sailors and airmen who had fought, been injured and died to protect the country during the 1914-1918 conflict and those since.

More than 60 residents and dignitaries gathered to witness the unveiling of a special commemorative plaque to go with the trees.

The Friends of Memorial Park invited members of the Royal British Legion and other community groups to join them.

Great Harwood’s town crier Rawden Kerr, opened proceedings before Bishop Michael Wilson representing the Royal British Legion, which had several veterans present, led a short service of dedication.

The plaque reads: “1914 - 2014. These ornamental cherry trees were planted by Friends of Memorial Park in honour of those who gave us our freedom through their sacrifice.”

It is situated just below the Round Wood with good views of Pendle Hill.

The group raised £1,100 for the new avenue and stone-mounted plaque including a £500 grant from the Green Partnership Awards. The park, war memorial, and associated playing fields, which date from 1921, are currently seeking official protection under the government’s Centenary Fields programme.

Retired engineer Mr Wilkinson said “Our group thought it would be appropriate to mark 100 years since the start of the First World War.

“This is a quiet space in the park for people to reflect on all those who have been affected by war related conflicts not just in the past but also in our present times.

“The Memorial Park has always had cherry trees blossoming in the Spring as part of its heritage but new ones were needed.

“We decided the centenary of the start of the First World War was a good time to replace them and renew the tradition.”