A “FANTASTIC” show which commemorated the 100th anniversary of the start of World War One has been showered with praise by town councillors.

Westhoughton High School hosted a unique tribute performance to the 221 men from the town killed in action during the conflict, which broke out 100 years ago on Monday.

The On The Go Theatre Company produced the show, which was supported by Wingates Band, The Houghton Weavers and school children from the town.

Westoughton Town council leader Cllr David Chadwick said the show gave a unique insight into what must have been going on in many homes in the town before World War One started.

He said: “The commemorations of the start of World War One were absolutely fantastic. We were very fortunate in that the group from the Octagon were superb.

“They had written their own play and did an exceptional performance of it.”

The Houghton Weavers folk group gave renditions of songs that were popular in 1914.

Mayor of Westhoughton, Cllr Kevan Jones, said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the day and was privileged to have been at the front.

“I was a bit nervous to read the poem but I rehearsed it and got through it. It was a wonderful day.”

Cllr Chadwick also thanked organiser Christine Morris, town clerk of Westhoughton Town Council.

He added: “She just rolls her sleeves up and gets stuck in when it comes to these events. Without exception, everybody said how much they enjoyed it.”