Hundreds of onlookers gathered on the streets of Rochdale as the town welcomed the final stage of an historical re-enactment marking 100 years since the town welcomed 1,000 soldiers at the beginning of the First World War.
The march to Rochdale, arranged by the Todmorden branch of the Royal British Legion and supported by Rochdale Borough Council, followed in the footsteps of that famous day in August 1914 which saw 1,000 soldiers from 6th Battalion Lancashire Fusiliers march from Todmorden to Rochdale before transport to Egypt and on to Turkey. The commemorative march, following the original 12 mile route, included Tod PALS, Reservists from the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers who are part of the 4th Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment based in Bury, and the Todmorden Community Band wearing First World War era regalia. Also in attendance was 84-year-old Doris Sharphouse, daughter of a First World War veteran from the Lancashire Fusiliers. She was joined by Robert Barker, grandson of Captain Barker, Second in Command of the First World War unit from Todmorden.
Cadets from Greater Manchester ACF remember the fallen
The parade received a warm welcome on arrival in Rochdale, where it was joined by another 200 men and women comprising Standard Bearers, the Salvation Army Band, veterans associations and cadets before heading to the cenotaph by the Town Hall for a public ceremony, wreath-laying and the last post. A one minute’s silence was observed, followed by prayers.Few came home alive or unscathed from the ‘Gallipoli campaign,’ one of the most bloody campaigns of World War One.
Council Leader Richard Farnell said:“It has been a very moving day, with a wonderful march and ceremony. I was pleased to see so many coming out to show their support, not just in Rochdale but all along the twelve mile route. It is so important that we never forget the sacrifices made and days like this, culminating in such a poignant service by the Cenotaph, help us to remember.” Acting Chief Executive Linda Fisher who also leads Armed Forces activities across Greater Manchester said:“The link between the military and our community is stronger than ever this year. Today was about showing our appreciation to all those local soldiers and their families who paid the supreme sacrifice. It was a day of mixed emotions and the reception the march received was incredibly moving. It was a well organised community event and we were pleased to see so many local people supporting it.” Rochdale was also one of the first councils in the country to sign the Armed Forces Community Covenant in November 2012, aimed at encouraging local communities to support services that promote and encourage activities that help integrate Armed Forces personnel back into civilian life.
