THE BOLTON Artillery Old Comrades Association applaud the regeneration now being carried out in Bolton's Nelson Square.

Representatives of the Association were consulted at all stages during the planning of this.

Our historic connection with this square was not covered by David Crookes in his recent article about it.

In 1919 the Bolton Artillery organised the funding of a war memorial to be erected in Nelson Square, to commemorate their members who had died during the 1914/18 war. Messrs Pommeroy and Foy were appointed architects, and in February, 1920, a canvas and wood replica of the proposed memorial was erected in Nelson Square, which, subject to minor modifications, was approved.

On July 29, 1920, the newly-constructed Bolton Artillery Cenotaph was unveiled by The Duke of York, who later was to become George VI. During this ceremony, Col W E Walker, on behalf of the Bolton Artillery, handed over the safekeeping of the cenotaph to the Mayor of Bolton on behalf of the Borough.

On September 18, 1954, a panel was unveiled listing the names of all those members of the Bolton Artillery who died during the 1939/45 war. This was performed by Maj Gen M N Dewar, under whom the Bolton Artillery had served with distinction in the 8th Indian Division during the Italian Campaign.

On each Remembrance Sunday, a service of remembrance takes place at 11.30am at Nelson Square, to commemorate all gunners who died in conflict during both World Wars, and subsequently elsewhere. At the conclusion of this service, families of all gunners are welcome to place their own tributes on the cenotaph.

Major Allan Rogerson

Bolton Artillery Museum

Bolton Artillery Barracks

Bolton