FIELD Marshall Viscount Montgomery of Alamein smiled and waved as he travelled through Rawtenstall, Burnley, Nelson and Colne.
And a coal shortage in Accrington and district was becoming desperate and many households had empty sheds, said merchants.
Supplies from Lancashire and Yorkshire collieries were not getting through.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article