BOLTON town centre stood still to remember the fallen in a moving service led by the former Vicar of Bolton.

Hundreds of passersby, veterans, cadets and serving members of the armed forces lined up in Victoria Square as a short service was held and two minutes silence observed.

The Rev Alan Wolstencroft led the service of Remembrance, saying: "Today we remember at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, all those who have given their lives in service of their country so we might live in peace and freedom."

Cadets from all the armed forces were represented at the service and eight standard bearers took their places in front of the war memorial in Victoria Square, representing various regiments and organisations including the Royal Artillery Association Bolton branch and the Old Veterans.

During the service maroon rockets were fired to mark the beginning and end of the two minutes silence, which was observed by all those in the town centre, and the Last Post was played.

The vicar reminded those present why they were there and noted the 99th anniversary of the first Armistice Day at the end of World War I and the 35th anniversary of the Falklands campaign.

A larger service and parade will be held on Remembrance Sunday, tomorrow.