Wigan Borough Veterans Council
Grand Opening
The weather was perfect for the opening of the new Veterans Building on Ribble Road, Platt Bridge on the 17th October 2009.
A number of dignitaries were in attendance including Ashton MP Ian McCartney, the Under Secretary for Defence, Kevan Jones MP and Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Mark Aldred.
The cutting of the tape was performed by Mr Kevan Jones after he and Ian McCartney said a few words and prayers were offered by Reverend Kevin Crinks.
Various veteran and volunteer forces gathered in a local square and formed a procession to the opening ceremony. Joe Unsworth and myself represented the Friendly Loyals and were glad of the 'friendly weather' as proceedings were delayed due to late arrival of a nameless dignitary!
The following photographs show some of the highlights of the day.
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Veterans with their respective regimental colours standing at ease just waiting for the RSMs order. Joe Unsworth is on the far left. |
Joe, and a very colourful character that spent most of his military carrier in The Enniskillen Fusiliers. |
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Joe again, waiting for the parade with my Wife Mary. |
Myself with the same gentleman. |
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Are the Parade marching up to the veterans centre parade ground. |
Young hopefuls take their place in the parade. |
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Melvyn Lee, Chairman, Secretary & Parade Marshall for his branch of the RBL and Chairman of the Duke of Lancaster's Regimental Association (Chorley Branch) Brings the Parade to Attention for inspection by the Lord Mayor of Wigan. To the left is Eric Tuner. |
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My Wife Mary with (on right) J Swift and Councillor Norman Bradbury. |
Three old pals enjoying the day. |
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A very moving and motivating speech by the Right Honerable MP Ian McCartney as part of his opening of this new centre. |
Fr Kevin Crinks from Leigh Parish Church says a few Prayers, and then the final blessing of the new building. |
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The ribbon is cut by the under secretary of State whilst his three MP friends look on. |
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| Commemorating the life of Ashton resident William Kenealy VC | |
| Rt Hon Ian McCartney MP presents Mr Stanley Sudworth with the Royal British Legion Gold Badge on Sunday, 26th July 2009. | |
