Tomorrow marks the centenary of the unveiling of the Gatty Park war memorial in Accrington.

The Church War memorial in Elmfield Hall in Gatty Park commemorates those who lost their lives during World War One.

The memorial was unveiled 100 years ago tomorrow, on September 18, 1923, by Lieutenant Colonel G.C.H. Bolton at the birth place of its sculptor – Walter Marsden.

The Portland stone figure representing ‘Peace’ is now situated inside Elmfield Hall and lists the names of the local men from Church who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The inscription reads: "1914–1918 They whom this monument commemorates were numbered amongst those who, at the call of King and Country left all that was dear to them; Endured Hardness; Faced danger and finally passed out of sight of men by the giving up of their own lives that others might live in freedom.

"Let those who come after see to it that their names be not forgotten 1939–1945.”

Chair of Church and Oswaldtwistle Royal British Legion, Hilary Austin, said: “The event 100 years ago was reported in the local newspapers as being an impressive ceremony before an audience of three to four thousand people.

“In addition to many local dignitaries in attendance 100 years ago the Church and Oswaldtwistle Royal British Legion took part in the procession and unveiling.

“The Royal British Legion Church and Oswaldtwistle Branch is still continuing  its valuable work today supporting the armed forces community and raising much needed funds for the Poppy Appeal. 

“The branch will be marking this important anniversary on Remembrance Sunday, November 12 at 11am during the annual service held there.”

Do you have a connection to any of the men this memorial commemorates and would like to share their story?

 If so Church and Oswaldtwistle Royal British Legion would like to hear from members of the public who have a connection to any of the men the memorial commemorates.

To share your story, email Hilary at ChurchOswaldtwistle.Chairman@RBL.Community or call 07934 024623.