AN annual war memorial pilgrimage to remember the Accrington Pals faces being cancelled unless more people come forward.

Only a fraction of veterans, their relatives, and tourists, have joined this year's coach trip to Ypres, Belgium, compared to previous years - and a decision will be made by organiser Steve Williams within the next few days whether the trip will go ahead.

Mr Williams, 55, originally from Blackburn, now of Brindle, near Chorley, even put back the trip date to try and increase numbers.

The threat comes just weeks after the closure of St John's Church, Addison Street, Accrington, which was dedicated to more than 700 young troops from Accrington, Blackburn, Burnley, and surrounding areas.

And it has dismayed people who feel the Pals' World War 1 sacrifice should never be forgotten.

The four-day trip over Remembrance Sunday, from November 9, has been organised by the co-founder of the Chorley Pals Memorial, but the coach will pick up in Padiham, Accrington, Blackburn, and then Chorley.

One local historian spoke on behalf of Bill Turner, formerly of Bamford Crescent, Accrington, who died in July after working tirelessly to bring the fate of the Pals to the world's attention.

Josie Green, secretary of Hyndburn Local History Society, said: "Everyone is getting older. Many of those who went on the tours with Bill have trouble going to Southport these days.

"It is a shame and I think Bill would have thought it was a shame also."

Hyndburn Council leader Peter Britcliffe said: "The Accrington Pals are a reminder to us of the horrors of war. They should be remembered. I am both shocked, and disappointed, that the trip to Ypres and Menin Gate will be cancelled because very few people are coming forward."

For more information, or to book a place on the trip, contact Mr Williams on 01254 854298 or e-mail info@chorleypals.org.uk