On 6 June, a good number of people gathered at the War Memorial in Oakhill Park to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings in Normandy. During the service the Town Crier, Rawden Kerr, announced the Anniversary, and we gave thanks for the bravery and dedication of the men who were landed on the beaches of Normandy during the Second World War, and remembered those who made the Ultimate Sacrifice as we laid poppy wreaths in their memory. Pupils from the Hollins Academy took part in the event. 

The D-Day landings of 6 June 1944 was the largest seaborne invasion in history. Along with the associated airborne operations, it marked the beginning of the liberation of France and western Europe. (From the Royal British Legion Website). 

Further information about the commemorations across the country for the 80th Anniversary are available on the RBL Website. 

Later in June, on 24th, we gathered at Oakhill Park again, to mark the beginning of Armed Forces' Week. The Armed Forces' Flag was raised in the Park, and the Deputy Lieutenant, Mrs Christine Kirk, announced the beginning of the week and Fr David offered prayers.

Just a week later, and we marked the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme on 1 July, with a short service at the newly renovated Pals' Memorial at St James' Church, where a group of people gathered to offer prayers and lay wreaths in memory particularly of those of the Accrington Pals who gave their lives in that terrible battle of the First World War.

Each of these events were organised and attended by members of the Accrington Branch of the Royal British Legion, and further photos are available on the Accrington RBL Facebook Page.