THOUSANDS of people across Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale stood in silent tribute to pay respects to those who gave their lives for others.

Services and wreath-laying ceremonies were held in towns and villages as young and old stood side by side in acts of solemn remembrance yesterday.

Around 500 people gathered by the war memorial at the Place de Vitry, Burnley. Veterans and young cadets took part in a service conducted by the Reverend Andy Williams, Minister of Zion Baptist Church, Burnley, assisted by Canon Tom Bill, Rector of the Burnley Parish Church of St Peter.

The Mayor of Burnley Councillor Margaret Lishman laid the first wreath at the war memorial followed by representatives from groups and organisations. In all more than 50 wreaths were laid. The town's MP Peter Pike and council leader Stuart Caddy also attended the ceremony.

At the end the civic party followed the brass band in the direction of the police station for the march past and salute.

Veteran Charlie Schofield, who is the chairman of the Burnley branch of the Royal British Legion, and lives in Hufling Street, was delighted with the service.

The 86-year-old, who served with the 87th regiment of the Royal Artillery in Africa and Italy in World War Two, and who is recovering from stomach cancer, said: "It was heartening to see the young people and the senior schools sent children. Each year the number of young people coming is growing, which is fantastic."

Similar scenes were repeated in Padiham and Hapton, while old soldiers in Pendle joined borough councillors and civic representatives at 12 locations around the borough to pay their respects.

The Mayor of Pendle, Coun Dorothy Lord, laid wreaths at services in Colne and Nelson.

The people of Rossendale turned out in force to offer their prayers and tributes at the cenotaph in Rawtenstall, for a service which was attended by MP Janet Anderson.