DOZENS of Horwich pensioners had a "pasty and peace" supper to mark the 70th anniversary of VJ day.

More than 90 people flocked to Horwich Resource Centre yesterday to commemorate the victory over Japan in August 1945.

As well as the traditional supper, they enjoyed a game of bingo and a stirring performance from jazz band the Bourbon Street Roof Raisers Jazz Band

Barbara Ronson, the organiser, said events such as this are important for community spirit.

Mayor of Horwich, Cllr Ken Denton, who served in the army for 15 years from 1963 to 1978, said people should never forget the sacrifices made by service personnel.

Mrs Ronson, from Horwich British Legion, has knitted 400 poppies for the Poppy Appeal so far, and is aiming to raise £1,000 in the end by selling her final haul of 500 at £2 apiece.

She said: "This is a pasty and peace party. We've got more than 90 people here from four different lunch clubs in Horwich.

"Our aim was to bring people together in Horwich and that is what we have done.

"It is quite a big town and this gets people together who otherwise wouldn't socialise."

The event followed similar ones for the 60th anniversary of the Queen's coronation, the Diamond Jubilee, the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War One and the Millennium.

Draped in Union Jacks, the hall at the resource centre has a military pedigree, with Mrs Ronson adding that it used to be a drill hall for the territorial army.

Cllr Denton said: "So much good work is being done in Horwich. I have lived in Horwich for 26 years and the spirit here, and in Bolton, is wonderful, which events like today show so well.

"VJ Day and other landmarks must never be forgotten.

"Members of the forces are still making such sacrifices, and they are doing it to protect communities such as this one."

Victory was secured on August 15 when Japan surrendered after the United States forces dropped atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.