Fallen soldiers remembered

Photo: Alan Hamer

Councillor Alan McCarthy lights a candle

Town centre Chaplain Rev Margaret Smith led a poignant service and candlelit vigil at Rochdale Memorial Gardens on Monday 4 August to mark the day Britain declared war on Germany in the First World War.

The service was organised to remember all those who gave their lives so valiantly and included prayers, hymns and a reading of the poem ‘For the Fallen’ written by Lawrence Binyon.

Rev Smith, who described the service as "humbling to have led", said: “It was a great response by the public who attended the service.

"It was important to the church to remember World War One without glorifying the war and instead focusing on the peace.

"The vigil was perfect as it allowed people to think about the implications which were felt throughout the world.”

Activities were held throughout the borough on Monday to mark the day Britain went to war. The day culminated at 10pm when the Town Hall joined in with a national ‘Lights Out’ campaign.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/88735/ww1-centenary-commemorated-with-lights-out