Hundreds support re-enactment of historic WW1 march

Re-enactment of historic WW1 march

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Hundreds of supporters of the Armed Forces gathered outside of Rochdale Town Hall today (Sunday 10 August) to watch as soldiers and walkers marched into Rochdale from Todmorden.

The walk followed the route that 1,000 soldiers from the 6th Battalion of Lancashire Fusiliers marched, from Todmorden to Rochdale, before being sent to Egypt and then to Turkey in 1914.

Su Newell, who was one of many who lined the route in Littleborough, said: “I think it is important to show our support for the forces and thought that I would come out and show that today. They were probably faced with a lot of rain back in 1914 so the rain hasn't put me off today.”

Jane Underdown said: “I wanted to show my respects to the people who lost their lives. I don’t condone war and think it is an awful thing so I thought it would be nice to show my support.”

David Woodhead, who has been part of the Royal British Legion for a number of years, said: “I thought if these people could come out today and do their march for the anniversary then so should we.”

Today’s commemorative march followed the 12 mile route originally taken in 1914 and included representatives from Tod PALS, reserves from the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and Todmorden Community band wearing first World War regalia.

Richard Barker, who was outside of Rochdale Town Hall to welcome to the walkers, is a descendent of Major Robert Barker who led the original walk. He said: “It is fantastic to see so many people come out to support the re-enactment.”

Yvonne Bennett said: “I came down because I think it is important and think that we should show our support for the armed forces.”

Once at Rochdale Town Hall, a number of speakers addressed the crowds that had gathered before a minute’s silence was observed. Wreaths were laid before a memorial service was led by Canon Shackleton and Reverend Margaret Smith.

Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Carol Wardle said: “It has been a very good day and all of the hard work that has been put in has really paid off. It has been brilliant to see so many people come out and show their support today.”

Council Leader Richard Farnell said: “It has been a very moving day, with a wonderful march and ceremony. I was pleased to see so many coming out to show their support, not just in Rochdale but all along the twelve mile route. It is so important that we never forget the sacrifices made, and days like this, culminating in such a poignant service by the Cenotaph, help us to remember.”

After the walk, members of the public along with those involved with the walk, were invited into Rochdale Town Hall to dry off and have a cup of tea.

Sarah Bramwell, who was involved with the walk, said: “It went really well and we all got through it. I think when we first saw the rain this morning none of us wanted to do it but we did and it has been great. It was nice to see all of the support we have received from people as well. There were people along the route everywhere.”

Drren Widdup added: “It was great. My feet have blisters on them now but I am glad I did it. I am in the Navy as well so the rain didn’t bother me at all.”