HUNDREDS gathered in the centre of Bolton to observe a poignant Remembrance Day service.

Victoria Square was filled with people to mark the 101st anniversary of the end of the First World War and remember those who have fought in all those conflicts since.

Crowds gathered from 10.40am in front of Bolton Town Hall to hear the service, led by the Vicar of Bolton, Rev Canon Dr Chris Bracegirdle.

“Today we meet as members of all faiths and of none,” the Vicar said.

“This year we have marked the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of the Second World War and today the whole nation is invited to remember the bravery and sacrifice of all those who have served in all conflicts.”

Following the Vicar’s introduction the Mayor of Bolton, Hilary Fairclough, led representatives from groups from around the borough in a procession to lay wreaths at the town’s war memorial.

This was followed by a march around the town hall passing in front of the crowds to allow people to pay their respect at the memorial.

After each person had left a tribute, poppies were released from the roof of the town hall to float down over the crowds.

For only the second time in Bolton, members of the public were invited to take part in a guided “walk past” the war memorial.

Across the rest of the borough, communities held their own Remembrance Day services in Astley Bridge, Blackrod, Bromley Cross, Farnworth, Kearsley, Horwich, Little Lever and Westhoughton.