The end of the Great War remembered with poppies

One hundred years after the Great War began, the borough of Rochdale is ensuring those who lived, fought and served during the years 1914-18 are remembered.

World War One ended at 11am on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, in 1918. Germany signed an armistice (an agreement for peace and no more fighting) that had been prepared by Britain and France.

The First World War was a turning point in world history.

It claimed the lives of over 16 million people across the globe and had a huge impact on those who experienced it.

It was the first real instance of total war. Whole nations were pitted against each other, millions of men fought on land, at sea and in the air, modern weaponry caused mass casualties and civilian populations suffered hardships and came under threat of attack.

Councillor Neil Emmott said: “The Rochdale In Bloom theme this year is the centenary of the end of the Great War.

“Remembrance Day this year is Sunday 11 November (100 years to the day).

“Poppies have been erected on lamp posts across the borough on specific routes.

“A large number of poppies will be planted along with themed displays.

“Silhouettes will make an appearance at memorials and planting schemes will appear with a World War One theme.

“A pop-up garden is being built in the centre of Rochdale, following the theme of the centenary.

“This is all part of the work that has been done over the last four years to ensure we remember the sacrifices made 100 years ago.”

Littleborough Soldiers who fought and died during the First World War have been remembered on Rochdale Online since 17 November 2014 thanks to Bernard Pratt from Littleborough History Society. Read about them at:

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/news-archives?type=News&Criteria=Littleborough+Soldiers+&SearchType=Phrase&CatID=