ON the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, the signs are strong that the St Helens community will unite for a powerful message of remembrance, hope and peace.

Dozens of events to commemorate the day in 1918, when the armistice was signed to end fighting in the First World War, are planned and many others have already taken place.

It is heartwarming to listen to the stories and look at the pictures of schoolchildren, scouts, guides and others writing messages and creating poppies to commemorate the anniversary.

This week’s Star has a special feature looking back on a century ago, including a fascinating piece by the historian Stephen Wainwright on how St Helens reacted to the dawn of a glorious peace in 1918.

Those words underline the importance of the occasion and why it is fitting hundreds will gather in Victoria Square on Sunday.

 

A monument at Windleshaw Chantry

The disappointment of the St Helens borough missing out on being the site for the UK base of high speed train manufacturer Talgo cannot be disguised.

As we wrote a few weeks ago this would have been a a game-changer for the area.

But regeneration leaders are refusing to be disheartened and believe the shortlisting process for the Parkside site – and the experience of the bid – will stand them in good stead for attracting other developers.

With £24m secured for a link road to the M6 for the site, and other – yet to be named – parties believed to be interested, those responsible for bringing investment to St Helens must move forward with confidence.

Disappointment, yes, but time to be negative, no.

 

What a performance by Saints’ Tommy Makinson in England’s victory over the Kiwis at Anfield.

And what an incredible test match.

Sometimes rugby league places so much emphasis on the fierce rivalries with neighbouring towns that the bigger picture is forgotten.

But if the sport is to thrive, the international game must be strong – that is the only way it will again have household names and the national presence it deserves.