the streets of Morley will fall silent when the town comes together to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice on the frontline.
Hundreds of poppy petals will fall from Morley Town Hall when residents, young and old, join together for a two minute silence to honour the memory of those who gave their lives to their country.
Retired Major Michael Sullivan, from the regimental headquarters of The Yorkshire Regiment, will light a candle to signal the start of the town’s Annual Festival of Remembrance which begins on Friday, November 9.
Members of The Yorkshire Regiment, who have seen at least 12 comrades killed in just over a year in Afghanistan, will attend the service.
Festival organiser Terry Grayshon said: “This year we have seen a number of deaths in Afghanistan and it seemed fitting that a representative from the Yorkshire Regiment should light the candle to remember those who have fallen.
“Morley has long held an association with the Yorkshire Regiment and it seems only right that we support them at this time of remembrance.”
Local soldier L/Cpl David Kirkness was hailed a hero after he died trying to stop a suicide bomber in Afghanistan three years ago.
The town honoured Lance Cpl Kirkness, who was member of 3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 Rifles) and died aged 24, by naming a street after him.
His daughter Brooke was just three when her father died on the frontline.
During the ceremony local cadets will given readings and choirs from Blackgates Primary and the Morley Academy will perform reflective pieces.
Mr Grayshon added: “Those taking part in the festival this year have been chosen to reflect that youth is our future and while they may appear young we should also remember that some of those who have been injured and have fallen in Afghanistan and other conflicts are not much older than them.”
The festival will be held at Morley Town Hall on Friday, November 9, at 7.30pm.
There will be a collection for The Royal British Legion and The Soldier’s Sailors Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help.
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