A HANDRAIL could be installed to help less able people when they visit the war memorial in Westhoughton.

Councillor Jack Speight, who represents Chequerbent Ward, made the suggestion after seeing residents struggling to cope on Remembrance Sunday.

At Westhoughton Town Council’s meeting last week, Cllr David Wilkinson, for Hoskers and Hart Common, said: “On Remembrance Sunday there were three individuals who struggled signi- ficantly. If they had fallen it would have caused them considerable injury and probably would have caused embarrassment for them.

“I don’t think age or infirmity should prevent people from laying a wreath. Most war memorials are fairly flat to the ground and the majority of people who go, with the greatest respect, are not getting any younger.”

He suggested a rail is placed along the side of the war memorial rather than one in the centre. He recommended people who lay wreaths are contacted and asked for their opinions.

Cllr Kevan Jones, of Central ward, said he would like to see a handrail which included different emblems relating to the history of the town.

But other councillors said a “bespoke” rail would be costly.

Cllr David Chadwick, of Central ward, said: “For future years we should delegate a few councillors to support people. Clearly there is the need for somebody there. In future we should say we will stand one side and assist officially.”

The meeting heard the war memorial was in a conservation area and planning permission may be required.

Councillors voted in favour of contacting Bolton Council to ask about the costs of placing a handrail and for planning advice.