Come along and remember your loved one at Annual Memorial service

The fifth Blackburn with Darwen Memorial Service will take place next Sunday, June 4, 2017.

The ‘Let Us Remember’ annual event sees multi-faith residents who have lost a loved one in the past year, coming together to pay their respects and honour their lives.

The function, held in Corporation Park, will be especially poignant this year in light of the recent tragic bombing in Manchester.

Supported by Blackburn Cathedral, Blackburn with Darwen Interfaith Forum and Blackburn with Darwen Council, the memorial was founded by Blackburn coroner of 18 years, Michael Singleton, who is due to retire this year.

During his work in the borough, he says he has seen thousands of families coping with the loss of a loved one.

Mr Singleton said:

This is an ideal opportunity for those of any faith, or no faith, remember anyone that has passed away, with others who have been through the same experiences.

This year’s event, given its timing will be especially poignant to those that are have been affected by the recent events that have impacted so many lives.

People will be able to leave their own tributes and messages in memory of their loved ones, in an area of the park.”

Blackburn with Darwen’s Mayor Cllr Colin Rigby will be at the event and there will be performances from the highly-acclaimed Blackburn’s People Choir.

Harry Catherall, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Chief Executive, added:

The Council is pleased to support this community and inter-faith event which welcomes people from all backgrounds and faiths to come together and support those who have lost a loved one.

It’s times like these when our diverse communities come together to show their support and solidarity for one another, and that’s really humbling.”

Erin Bolton, Bereavement Care Co-ordinator at East Lancashire Hospital’s Trust, added:

When people are coping with the loss of a loved one, the support of the community, neighbours and friends is invaluable.

An event such as this helps people in their time of grief and loss by standing together with others and knowing that they are not alone and are supported by people in similar situations to themselves.”

The event starts at 1pm in Corporation Park by the fountain. People are invited to plant a plaque with a tribute for their loved one. A tree will also be dedicated as a mark of remembrance.