Vast crowds turn out in St Helens to mark 100th anniversary of Armistice Day

Thousands packed on to Victoria Square for the service, which took place beside the war memorial.

The turnout - which included veterans, servicemen and women, dignitaries and families - is believed to be the largest of modern times.

Organisers estimate between 2,000 and 3,000 people attended. At least 15 organisations took part in the march, which involved in the region of 400 people, including many children.

Rarely has the emotion of this gathering felt so powerful and the strength of atmosphere - the sheer importance of the occasion - could be felt as the crowds gathered from 10am.

Many strained for a view over the deep masses in front of them as the parade began the march into the square at 10.30am.

Others - knowing the vastness of the crowds meant they would not be able to watch the service unfold - simply stood and listened, wanting to be present on a historic day to pay their respects.

They listened as the service was opened by Reverend Beth Anderson, of St Helens Parish Church, before lessons and prayers were delivered by Reverend Martin Wood of Wesley Methodist Church and Reverend Deacon David Paul Caldwell of St Mary's Lowe House.

The Last Post sounded to set the scene for a perfectly observed two-minute silence that saw St Helens stand with the nation and countries across the world.

Primary schoolchildren, some crouched down at the front or elevated on the shoulders of a parent, were among those to show impeccable dignity, fully aware of the enormity of the day's history thanks the magnificent education programmes that have gone on in the borough over the past month.

Words of commemoration were delivered by Trevor Howard of the Royal Naval Association, a stalwart of these Remembrance Sunday occasions.

He said: "They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old.

"Age shall not weary them, not the years condemn.

"At the going down of the sun and in the morning

"We will remember them."

The voice of Lawrence Powers, formerly, of the 2nd Battalion King's Own Scottish Borders, quivered ever so slightly as he followed with the Kohima Epitaph.

He said: "When you go home.

"Tell them of us and say

"For your tomorrow

"We gave our today."

A passionate rendition of the National Anthem, led by Valley Brass Band and Haydock Male Voice Choir, preceded the laying of the wreaths at the memorial.

Rarely have the tributes on the monument looked so poignant.

Afterwards, St Helens Council opened the doors of the town hall for the public and veterans to warm up with a cup of tea and a chat, while viewing memorabilia from the First World War.

Speaking inside, Derek Long, the leader of St Helens, said: "I think it was a fantastic turnout. It shows how the community of St Helens comes together and respects those who served in the past and serve in the present.

"It is inspiring to see all the veterans but also the young people in the voluntary groups and crowds."