CROWDS turned out in Church Square this afternoon for an uplifting celebration of the armed forces.
The celebration parade featuring troops and cadets included a ceremony outside Parish Church.
Reverend Dr Chris Stafford, team rector at All Saints in Newton-le-Willows, welcomed the crowds, stressing how much the borough values the servicemen and women of today and yesterday.
Families gathered in Church Square, along with dignitaries and politicians, listened to prayers from Reverend Stafford and moving poems 'Tom' delivered by Robert Swainbank, chairman of St Helens Royal Marine Association, and Sea Fever, by Vicky Finch.
Singers Eleanor Nelly, who performed Travelin Soldier, and Daisy Hatton, I Know Where I've Been, earned warmed applause from the crowds.
And Valley Brass Band's music added to the rousing occasion.
The event concluded with a celebration parade down Church Street.
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