EX-SERVICEMEN from the Second World War gathered in Bolton town centre to remember their friends on the 59th anniversary of VJ Day.

Shoppers also marked the victory over Japan in August 1945 by gathering in silence on Sunday as nine standard bearers marched with their flags in Victoria Square.

They were watched by around 30 veterans, young sea and air cadets, and ex-Servicemen.

As the lone bugler finished playing The Last Post, the sun began to shine across the square as flags were lowered.

Pastor Frank Iddon, from Farnworth Baptist Church, led a short service of prayer and remembrance before the Mayor, Cllr Prentice Howarth, laid a wreath at the foot of the war memorial. They were joined in laying wreaths by representatives of the ex-Services associations.

The VJ Day service ended as shoppers and passers-by joined in the National Anthem.