ONE HUNDRED years since the beginning of World War One will be marked across the community through a series of events and memorials this year.
In Lydgate, poppies will be planted around the small village over summer and then residents will gather together for a war-themed village social on Saturday, November 8 and Remembrance Service at St Anne’s Church on Sunday, November 9.
A wall hanging in the Church hall commemorates local men who died during the Great War and their names are listed on a plaque in the church while a book ‘The Boys from the top of the hill’ is to be published chronicling the 44 men in more detail.
A ‘living history’ solider will visit St Anne’s School Lydgate, where pupils will also release doves of peace and learn songs.
Jennifer Greenwood, chair of Love Lydgate, said: “These men gave their lives for the local community and we want to recognise that together.
“We have been passed the baton to make sure they are not forgotten.”
Meanwhile in Lees, the village association’s sixth annual poetry and craft competition with local schools will adopt a remembrance theme.
Children will be invited to submit their entries in various age categories to be judged by local councillors and artists over Easter.
In Greenfield, poppies will be planted in the recently installed planter on Manchester Road – the latest project of Street Scene Greenfield – to give a commemorative welcome to visitors and residents.
And at St Chad’s Church in Uppermill, research is already being carried out into names on their memorial tablet by members of the congregation.
Details about some of the 77 names on the tablet appear in K.W. Mitchinson’s book, ‘The Experience of a Pennine Community during the Great War’ but a more detailed picture can be built up using the 1911 census.
If you have relatives whose names are on the tablet so would like to be involved or just want to be part of the research group, please contact the Team Office on 01457 879977 or email office@saddleworthteam-cofe.org.uk
Elsewhere, in Springhead, a Blue Plaque could be installed in recognition of local solider Tom Steele, who was awarded a Victoria Cross.
And in Delph, the annual commemorative service will be held at the three war graves in the village’s independent cemetery.
More events are already in the pipeline to be held across the borough and details will be released soon.
Councillor Barbara Beeley, chair of the Saddleworth and Lees District Partnership, said: “If you are planning an event or would like help to organise one, please get in touch.
“It does not matter how big or small, our team in Uppermill is on hand to help and advise.”
Do you have an event you wish to publicise? Please let us know by calling Aimee on 01457 879264 or emailing aimee@saddind.co.uk
People wishing to register an event or who need assistance organising one should contact Jane Soriente, Saddleworth and Lees case worker, on: 0161 770 8416 or email jane.soriente@oldham.gov.uk
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