War memorial care programme now underway ahead of Remembrance Day

Across Lancashire, people are coming together to prepare war memorials ahead of Remembrance Day, honouring the fallen with pride, care and respect.

This year, Lancashire County Council is backing these efforts, reinforcing the spirit of civic pride and the shared commitment to those who served their country.

Announced by Cabinet in September, the project supports communities who care for these important landmarks and celebrates the pride residents take in preserving local heritage. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of service that continues to thrive across the county.

The programme is built on local knowledge and feedback, with 65 memorials reviewed by the council's Environmental Services Team.

So far, requests for support have been received at various sites across the county, including: Coppull, Clayton-le-Woods, Whittle-le-Woods, Accrington (Oak Hill Park and Haworth Park), Oswaldtwistle, Great Harwood, Morecambe, Barrowford, Colne, Earby, Salterforth, Longridge (Berry Lane and Kestor Lane), Burscough (Pippin Street), and Tarleton.

Tasks will include pruning overgrown vegetation, edging borders, topping up bark mulch and removing moss and algae. No cleaning or direct work on the war memorial structures will be undertaken.

Ahead of Remembrance Day, County Councillor Warren Goldsworthy, cabinet member for Highways and Transport, joined efforts to clean the Accrington War Memorial in Oak Hill Park, Hyndburn.

Cllr Goldsworthy said:

"We extend our deepest thanks to the volunteers, town and parish councils, and community groups whose dedication keeps these memorials clean and tidy all year round. Their efforts are a shining example of civic pride in action - showing how local communities come together to honour the past and care for the future.

"By using our resources, we're proud to support and strengthen this vital work, helping ensure war memorials are in excellent condition ahead of Remembrance Day."