
At Guide Bridge much of the garden and adjoining fencing was bedecked in locally made knitted poppies. An olive tree was planted to commemorate Armistice. Andy and Barry's efforts, along with their team, got the event off to a flying start!
At Hattersley Babs had on display some of the many commemorative painted pebbles created by local schoolchildren. These will be cemented in during the near future along with a permanent art display.
At Glossop over 100 people listened to the period tunes played by students from Chetham's School of Music. The quality of the music was excellent deservedly receiving much applause. John LeGrove directed the students playing his own arrangements whichincluded stalwart favourites, Roses of Picardy and It's a Long Way to Tipperary. Our thanks to the students and John.
Thanks also to Mike, staff and customers at adjoining TWIG cafe for their forbearance when entering and leaving the cafe during this busy period.
Events culminated at Hadfield station where photos were taken on the platform before the guests assembled at the nearby Cenotaph. Four local children in locally produced themed tabards handed out commemorative leaflets. Joy addressed those gathered with appropriate thoughts on war and hopes for peace. This was followed by Paul and Neil reading three poems The Soldier; In Flanders Fields and For The Fallen. Neil invited everyone to join in the famous lines beginning They shall not grow old . . . we will remember them as a respectful conclusion to the event.
Light refreshments prepared by Joy and team were then taken in a warm and welcoming Hadfield Hall!
The Four Friends groups would like to thank the following: the three soldiers, Daniel, Chris and Dan for their patience and goodwill; Paul Marsh for his beautifully produced commemorative leaflets; Chethams School of Music - the students and Dave Chatterton and John LeGrove - for their evocative music; Simon Brooks, Glossop Line Manager for Northern whose permissions and arranging for free travel by train for participants were much appreciated, and our grateful thanks to Steve Forde at South East Community Rail Partnership for sponsorship of the event.
We were touched by the number of people turning up at the stations and for the staunch support given by local press especially David and photographer colleagues from the Glossop Chronicle, Susan at the High Peak Review and Christina from SSAFA PR North West.
1918 - WE WILL REMEMBER THEM - 2018