EARLESTOWN fell silent as large crowds gathered on Sunday for a Remembrance Sunday service.

The Newton-le-Willows service, led by Sea Cadets Commander John Unsworth, involved schools, charities, veterans, councillors and MP Conor McGinn.

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There was a focus on raising awareness of the “black poppy” which commemorates the contribution of Commonwealth countries during the wars.

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Children lay wreaths at the war memorial

Joining the service were Andrew Lockey, currently serving with the Royal Navy, and former St Aelreds student Gunner Cheereese Winchester, who is with the Commando Regiment at Plymouth. 

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The St Helens North MP Conor McGinn

Both were invited to return to their home service in Newton-le-Willows by councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron.

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Newton Councillors Jeanie Bell and Seve-Gomez Aspron

He said: “It is always such an honour to write to the regiments of serving Newtonians to request their attendance at our Remembrance Parade. 

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Servicemen laying tributes 

“It is something I’ve always offered to do, and those who come home are inspirational and the Forces never disappoint.

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“Newton-le-Willows as a town is proud of our current and past residents who have served our country. “