ARMED forces veterans are seeking to create an association in Newton-le-Willows.

A group of veterans in the area are hoping to establish an association to enable people with a history of serving in the armed forces, or their supporters, to meet, chat and socialise.

The idea came about from the fact that a lot of the veterans only get to see each other at the Newton-le-Willows Remembrance Day Parade each year.

They decided to explore the opportunity to meet more often together as an organisation.

British Army veteran, John McCarthy said the area's proud military heritage and tradition of turning out for commemorative events can lay a foundation for the proposed group.

John said: “Newton-le-Willows and the surrounding districts of Lowton, Burtonwood, Winwick and so on have a proud military history and a long tradition of turning out to support events such as the ones we’ve seen in this important centenary year.

"A few of us had the idea that we should try and capture this enthusiasm and turn it into a more formal opportunity to meet up and socialise to achieve various things."

He added: "Since 1921 Newton-le-Willows has had a strong history of supporting veterans and we hope this is something we can revive.

"We hope that any veterans, current serving personnel or anyone with a passion for supporting the armed forces can come along and join us for a pint and a chat to see how we can get this idea moving forward. Hope to see you there”

The group is inviting veterans from Newton-le-Willows and the surrounding areas to attend its inaugural meeting on Monday, January 7 at 7pm at Newton Social Club on Patterson Street, Earlestown,

There will be the opportunity for a drink and a chat on the evening.