People gathered in Victoria Square in honour of the country's servicemen and women.
The Armistic Day Service started at 10.50am and heads bowed for the minute’s silence.
A record number of people attended the short service.
Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Zaman Akhtar said the number of people who attended was the biggest in recent years. 
He said: “It was nice to see so many people here today as it’s important to remember.
“Only by remembering our past can we plan for the future.
“It’s important for civic life and for the community to get together.”
As the crowd fell silent for the minute ‘s silence, it was a poignant moment for ex Mayor of Bolton and former Royal Engineer In 1963, Anthony Connell.
The 81-year-old's old father, Bernard Connell, served in the war as a Royal Engineer.
He said: “Year on year this event improves and usually there isn’t always this many people before the main event on Sunday but this year, it’s been a huge turnout.
“When I was in the forces, there was no war at the time except the Cold War in Germany, where I was stationed.
“We do this for the people who have lost their lives like my father, but thankfully he came back when I was five and I have respect for him.”
Bolton MP Yasmin Qureshi called for residents in her Bolton South East constituency to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of UK armed forces this Remembrance Sunday.
She said: “During remembrance, we honour and remember the sacrifices made by service men and service women, veterans and their families.
“It’s vital we recognise their heroic efforts, so I encourage Bolton residents to support the local poppy appeal and pass on the importance of Remembrance to the next generation.”
Phil Holden from Breightmet was invited by the mayor to show off his Basil bike bearing flags and music at the event.
READ: Remembrance Day marked at Christ Church in Little Lever
A Remembrance Service will take place on Sunday from 10.40am at Victoria Square.
The public is encouraged to gather once again to pay their respects.
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