Representatives of the Royal British Legion, the Services, the Town Council and local community turned out in atrocious weather, not untypical in these parts, to rededicate the Whaley Bridge War Memorial following its recent restoration. Great efforts were made to complete the work on the surrounding area of the Memorial Park in time for this event.

The Rev Margaret Jones, vicar of Holy Trinity and Taxal Churches, conducted the service of dedication and act of remembrance. The reading was Psalm 121, and hymns were Onward, Christian Soldiers and Jerusalem.

The Rev Margaret Jones leading the Dedication Service

John Cooke and Jenny Woodward laid a wreath as leaders of the Whaley Bridge Royal British Legion. John is Chairman of the men’s section and Jenny is Chairwoman of the women’s section.

John Cooke and Jenny Woodward laying the RBL Wreath

Councillor John Pritchard, Chair of Whaley Bridge Town Council, laid a wreath on behalf of the community and civic authorities.

John Pritchard saluting the dead of two World Wars, after laying a wreath on behalf of the town

Guests included Jackie Daly County Secretary for Cheshire of the Royal British Legion and Andrew Stokes, Executive Director & Chief Finance Officer at High Peak Borough Council, together with officers and staff of the Horticulture Department.

David Woodward reading The Soldier

RBL Standards departing the Service

In a speech later at the Bowling Club, Councillor Pritchard thanked the officers of the Royal British Legion for organising the event, and the staff of High Peak Borough Council for making ready this part of the work on the Park in time for the event.

“We will remember them”