Ceremony in Heywood to unveil specially designed heritage street signs

Specially designed heritage street signs honouring the contribution Heywood made to the Second World War effort

Heywood’s links with the Royal Air Force will be honoured on Sunday 5 February when specially designed heritage street signs honouring the contribution Heywood made to the Second World War effort are unveiled. 

The RAF had a number of stations in the local area throughout the war years, when lasting bonds formed between the force and local people.

Many local roads were given military names when they were built but never formally dedicated. 

Councillor Alan McCarthy, the council’s lead member for the Armed Forces, said: “It is important to remember the sacrifices that were made as a community. The stunning new signs link the roads to our rich local history and the important part Heywood played in the war effort. It will be a proud day for the town.”

Wing Commander David Forbes MBE DL RAFVR(T) RTD, president of Rochdale’s Royal British Legion branch, said: “It is heartening to see communities recognising the fact that many towns across the UK played a part in the war effort. Gestures like this ensure that our younger generation have a better understanding of our rich local history. It promises to be a lovely event that will bring all ages together to remember and reflect.”

The public dedication service will be held on Bader Drive Heywood at 11.00am on Sunday 5 February. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The Heywood streets to be dedicated are Bader Drive; Biggin Gardens; East Church Way; Hendon Grove; Hornchurch Court; Kenly Drive; Northolt Fold; Tangmere Avenue; West Malling Close; Whitehouse Close; Wings Grove.

The beautifully crafted signs have been made by the Royal British Legion Industries who provide training, support, care and employment to the Armed Forces community.

The Royal British Legion has a weekly base at Number One Riverside, Rochdale. Every Thursday from 11am-1pm, legion members provide face to face advice and support to serving personnel, veterans and their families.