The revamped Accrington Pals Memorial Garden, at St James Church, Church Street, Accrington is set to be unveiled at a rededication ceremony. This will take place at 10.30am and all are welcome.
The £260,000 project, funded by the UK Government, has transformed the Pals Memorial Garden on Church Street into an inviting space honouring the rich heritage of Accrington . Accrington Pals sculpture (Image: John Earnshaw) One of the focal points of the space is a sculpture created by garden designer and landscaper John Everiss. It commemorates the soldiers who died in the Battle of the Somme.
The sculpture was crafted at Fitzpatricks in Nelson. The Accrington Pals battalion had four 250-strong companies including not only men from the town but volunteers from other nearby East Lancashire towns such as Burnley , Blackburn , and Chorley. On the first day of the Battle of the Somme on July 1 1916, 585 of its men became casualties with 235 killed and 350 wounded in about half an hour.
Lancashire Telegraph Camera Club member, John Earnshaw, has shared some pictures of the 3D sculpture, ahead of the official unveiling ceremony. Graham Jones, former MP for Haslingden and Hyndburn said: “Well done to [everyone] involved in producing the Pals statues on Church Street. “Having a lifesize commemoration just makes things a bit more real and adds to the remembrance for those that fell on that fateful day, as well as all those who have given so much for our freedoms.
” A spokesperson for Hyndburn Green Spaces Forum said: “After many months in the making...
the pals are finally in place. “They stopped folk in their tracks, brought tears to some. Some said [the sculpture was the ‘best thing in Accrington and ‘absolutely brilliant’ and there was just silence from others.
” Hyndburn Council's culture and parks boss Cllr Kimberley Whitehead said: “I’m thrilled to see the completion of this project. "The Accrington Pals Memorial is a vital feature for our town, helping us recognise the sacrifices made by thousands of our residents. "The garden is a beautiful public space and the sculpture is very moving.
"I’d like to thank all those involved including the Town Centre Greening Group who have been integral to this project.” Cath Holmes, chair of Hyndburn Green Spaces Forum and member of the Accrington Pals Commemorative Group, said: “This sculpture is a powerful and moving tribute to the Accrington Pals. "John Everiss has captured the spirit and bravery of our Pals in a way that is both poignant and inspiring.
"The painstaking work over many months, intricate details and craftsmanship involved in creating this piece are truly remarkable.” Mark Fitzpatrick, director of Fitzpatrick Fabrications, said: “It has been a pleasure to work on such a significant project. "This sculpture is a perfect way to connect the next generation with the bravery of the Accrington Pals.
"Modern technology has made it possible to create this intricate piece, which has been a labour of love for everyone involved. "I believe it is a fitting tribute to the brave men who fought and died in World War One.” Mr Everiss said: "It's a very moving experience making a sculpture for something so profound as the story of the Accrington Pals.
"I hope this is something really quite special for the town of Accrington.".
