THOUSANDS of people in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale stood in silent tribute to pay their respects to those who have died in wars and conflicts.

Services and wreath-laying ceremonies were held in towns and villages, with young and old standing for the solemn acts of remembrance yesterday.

Around 500 people gathered at Place de Vitry, in Burnley, to pay homage to the many who gave their lives in the line of duty. Old soldiers and young cadets stood together before the rows of white crosses bearing the names of those who died, while a service was conducted by the Dean Dennis Dwyer, of St Philip's Church, Padiham, and the Mayor's Chaplain, Father Geoffry Hilton, of St Augustines Church, Burnley.

Mayor of Burnley, Coun Lilian Clark, laid the first wreath at the war memorial, followed by representatives from groups and organisations, including the Royal British Legion, the ex-servicemen's associations, pupils from the local high schools, army and sea cadets, St John's Ambulance and Lancashire Fire and Rescue. The service was also attended by Peter Pike MP and his family alongside leader of the council, Coun Stuart Caddy. At the end of the service the civic party followed the brass band in the direction of the police station for the march past and salute.

Veteran John Denson, 81, of the 52nd Field Regiment, who lives in Burnley, shed a tear in memory of lost friends. He said: "Each year it is lovely to see young and older people coming together to remember something of such high importance."

Similar scenes were repeated in Padiham and Hapton. Old soldiers in Pendle joined local councillors and civic representatives at 12 separate locations around the borough to remember their heroes.

The people of Rossendale also turned out in force to offer their prayers and tributes. They gathered at war memorials in Rawtenstall, where a wreath was laid by mayor, Coun Eileen Kershaw.

Other services were held in Ramsbottom, Bacup and Helmshore.