Residents of Lower Kersal came together Friday morning to honour those lost in the two world wars.
104 years on from the end of the first World War, Reverend Daniel Burton gave a thoughtful yet sombre speech at St Aiden’s Church, Littleton Road to reflect on those who sacrificed their lives.
In addition to this, he shared poems including ‘In Flanders Fields’ by John McCrae, and led prayers. Candles were also lit as people paid their respects.
In his speech, the Salford vicar said: “What we’re taking part in today and on [Remembrance] Sunday is a contract, actually – a covenant. An agreement that we will remember them.”
Burton, 55 adorned a particularly unique poppy, made out of the metal of a shell recovered from the Battle of the Somme.
The red centre contains earth from the battlefield and was a limited-edition release by the Royal British Legion in 2018.
The brass poppy was presented to him by the late Derek Corfield, a Salford war hero who served King and country from his mid-teens and was later a firefighter in the city for 25 years.
Burton said the small poppy is something he will ‘always, always treasure and wear with pride.’
The service was followed by attendees taking the time to watch ‘Then and Now’, a short film produced by volunteers and members of the Lower Kersal Young People and Community Group (LKYPCG) five years ago.
The film follows a group of troublemaking lads who are humbled after being educated about the Salford Pals, who went to fight in the First World War and subsequently lost their lives. Out of 24 officers and 64 men, a staggering 21 officers and 448 men became causalities.
A hearty corn beef hash and bread were appropriately served to visitors, reflecting the theme of war rationings, alongside hot drinks and an assortment of cakes.
The LKYPCG’s creative directors Thomas and Lesley Lever were grateful for all those who came on the day.
Recent Comments