A SPECIAL prayer was said at the remembrance parade in Burnley for the nations fighting to preserve our freedom following the atrocities on September 11.

One of the largest gatherings for many years stood and paid quiet homage to the hundreds from the town who have given their lives in the wars and conflicts of the last century.

The white crosses had already been placed in regimental lines with loving care in the garden of remembrance, each bearing the name of someone who fought but never returned.

This year Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday were on the same day and so for the first time in 13 years Royal British Legion poppy appeal organiser and standard bearer Eric Midgley was able to take his rightful place holding the legion's standard proudly before the memorial in the Place de Vitry.

He usually attends a service at the town's memorial in Towneley Park on November 11 at 11o'clock. He also joined is a separate service which was held in the park in the afternoon.

As 11 o'clock approached the rain ceased and 15-year-old Thomas Booth from Towneley High School's Brass Band gave a pitch-perfect rendition of the Last Post.

As the dying notes faded, the town hall clock struck 11 and silence fell across the usually bustling town centre.

The many children who attended the event stood quietly and only the sound of traffic disturbed the silence.

The service was led by Methodist Superintendent Minister the Rev Keith Richardson along with the Mayor of Burnley Coun Jack Alston's chaplain Father Michael Fraher of St Mary Magdalene's Church.

Leading a special prayer for the "problems" in the world at the moment Mr Richardson said: "Grant to the leaders of the nations wisdom, courage and insight at this time of darkness and fear."

After the service the Mayor led the wreath laying ceremony before taking the salute outside the police station.

A separate service was held in Padiham and Hapton and at churches around the district.

In Rossendale services were held in Whitworth, Bacup, Rawtenstall, Ramsbottom, Stubbins, Haslingden and Helmshore.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Rossendale Coun Jimmy Grogan and his wife Lois took the salute in Haslingden as the parade marched along Higher Deardengate and in Bacup. The Deputy Mayor and Mayoress Coun Jimmy Eaton and his wife Janet attended the services in Helmshore and Rawtenstall.

In Pendle there were 12 wreath laying ceremonies with local councillors joining Royal British Legion representatives and local residents in Barnoldswick, Barrowford, Brierfield, Blacko, Colne, Earby, Fence, Foulridge, Higham, Nelson, Newchurch and Trawden.

The Mayor of Pendle Coun Colin Waite attended the service at Colne and Nelson and the Deputy Mayor Coun Pauline McCormick laid a wreath in Brierfield.