St Helens turns out in force for Remembrance Sunday

Large crowds gathered in Victoria Square for the Remembrance Sunday service on a rainy and chilly autumn morning.

Reverend Rachel Shuttleworth welcomed the public to the gathering, crediting them for turning out in large numbers despite the “horrible weather”.

Once again the parade into the square was noticeable for the mixture of veterans, cadets, scouts and girl guides as the generations joined forces in a striking symbol of unity.

There was a similar picture among the crowds, with a noticeable number of young families paying their respects.

Reverend Shuttleworth was joined by Reverend Deacon Dave Lawson, of St Austin’s St John Church to deliver the service.

Crowds gathered in force on a wet and chilly autumn after (Image: Bernard Platt)

Delivering prayers, Rev Shuttleworth said: “As on this day we look back and remember with gratitude those who died. In time of war, let us also look around and remember with compassion those who still suffer as a result of war.”

The crowds listened in perfect silence as veterans and servicemen read words of commemoration For the Fallen, the Kohima Epitaph and the poem Flanders Fields.

A performance followed from Anna, The Golden Age Songbird, who sang Salve Regina, while Haydock Male Voice Choir and Valley Brass Band delivered a rousing rendition of Our God Our Help in Ages Past.

Remarking on a modern world where war and conflict is never far from our news bulletins, Rev Shuttleworth called on the people of St Helens to perform an act of dedication by calling for peace and justice in the world.

Crowds duly obliged and listened as the National Anthem was played.

Representatives of various organisations and public then later wreaths and crosses as they remembered those who gave their lives for the country.

Applause followed for march past of the organisations, culminating the end of a service which was a credit to St Helens.