THE immense bravery of the Accrington Pals is remembered at around this time every year.

But the annual memorial service was all the more poignant with the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War approaching.

And yesterday’s tributes in the town signalled the start of four years of events in Hyndburn, to coincide with the programme of national commemorations.

It was fitting that Ruth Turner, wife of the late Bill who did so much research into the history of the regiment, was a guest of honour.

Pictures from Mr Turner’s collection have been turned into the huge banner which will act as a constant reminder on Broadway.

The Pals are such an important part of the fabric of the town, with their losses touching the whole community as husbands, sons, brothers, uncles and friends perished on the fateful first day of the Battle of the Somme.

So much more is planned to remember them this year, including a freedom parade in the summer, which will be a fitting tribute to those brave men of the 11th Battalion East Lancashire Regiment, universally known as the Accrington Pals.