Remembering WWII heroes 70 years on

The 70th anniversary of the outbreak of World War II was remembered this morning during Liverpool’s annual Remembrance service.

Proud ex servicemen gathered to pay their respects to fallen war heroes at the service, which took place at the Cenotaph on St George's Plateau.

The Band of The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment marched up Lime Street playing to hundreds of people who had come to pay their respects.

Prior to the the service, Danielle Thomas sang a rendition of ‘Abide With Me’ at St. George’s Hall Plateau.
The service started at 10.55am with The Archbishop of Liverpool, The Most Revd Patrick Kelly highlighting the togetherness of the people of Liverpool and also referring to the recent vigil against homophobia, held in the city last week.

The Archbishop of Liverpool also said: ‘‘We remember all those who sacrificed their today’s so that our tomorrows would be lived out in safety, security and not scarred by the hatred of others because they are other’’

Colonel J. Graeme Bryson, OBE, Life County President of The Royal British Legion led the Act of Remembrance, which was followed by the firing of a gun, signalling the start of a two-minute silence at 11am.

Images of Liverpool during the blitz were beamed onto Lime Street's giant video wall during the service.
Royal Marine Cadet, Adam McCarver, said: ‘‘It made me feel very proud to be a part of today. I liked the way that they showed the pictures on the big screen, it was a good service.’’

The service ended with the congregation singing the National Anthem, accompanied by Danielle Thomas and The Band of The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment.

A parade of regiments including the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines and the Police Force left St Georges Hall Plateau to salute the Cenotaph as they marched along Lime Street to an applaud from the congregation.

Liverpool's tribute to its war heroes started on Friday 6th November when the Lord Mayor planted the first cross in St. John's Gardens.

Les Clancy, who served with The Royal Artillery, said: ‘‘I feel proud every day. The service was good this year, it was a good turnout and we should remember them all the time.’’