THE installation of six benches recounting Accrington’s history is under way in its new commemorative square.

Backed by specially-commissioned granite artworks, they feature key events and people linked to the town.

These include the Accrington Pals company which took heavy casualties in the 1916 Battle of the Somme, Accrington Stanley football club, and the town’s role in the Industrial Revolution.

Also featured are celebrities including England cricketer and coach David Lloyd and runner Ron Hill, the Tiffany Glass collection at the Haworth Art Gallery and the renowned NORI brick.

Work installing the benches in the new Town Square began last week as part of preparations for the project’s official opening on November 11, the centenary of the last day of the First World War.

The six benches are made from horizontal pieces of wood representing the duckboards which were at the foot of wartime trenches in memory of the Pals.

The duckboards are mounted on vertical piece of granite etched with images commemorating the sacrifice of the Accrington Pals and the town’s achievements.

Cath Holmes, daughter of the Pals historian Walter Holmes and grand-daughter of Percy, whose reaction to news of their slaughter is etched on one of the granite blocks, said: “I’m so pleased to have been involved with the content of these fantastic pieces of street art, particularly the ones featuring the Accrington Pals and trench life.

“To see my Grandad Percy’s words immortalised in a lasting tribute to our brave men and boys is very moving.”

David Burgess, chief executive of Accrington Stanley, said: “It’s wonderful to see this bench and artwork representing our football club in the new Town Square. Stanley is the club that wouldn’t die and to see this bench and artwork standing proudly here in the new Town Square is fantastic.”

Work illuminating the town and market halls and installing new planters is also under way.