WORDS fail me when I try to describe the privilege of being able to join in the events in Bolton to mark the centenary of the start of WW1— these culminating in the candlelit vigil at the parish church.
After 50 years in entertainment, I can truly say that this was only the second occasion in my life when I was taken aback by the sheer drama, theatricality and emotion of an event only reinforced by its religious basis and the object of its purpose.
This is the Bolton I associate myself with; the people who attended being the people who hold the heritage and values of the town and its forebears dear to their hearts.
All credit must be given to the clergy, the officers of the council, the military, the standard bearers, the veterans’ associations and the several other groups who made this possible.
Particular mention must be made of the role of Cllr John Walsh, OBE, who made a massive contribution to the organisation which resulted in near perfect execution of the planned events.
Bolton has done itself proud. This is the Bolton we must preserve and promote.
Cllr Paul Richardson Ripon Close Little Lever
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