Published Monday 19 September 2022 at 10:54
As the world prepares to say a final goodbye to Her Majesty the Queen, our borough’s people were part of a historical moment yesterday, gathered to attend a special service of thanksgiving at Blackburn Cathedral.
Up to 800 people were at the commemorative service in memory of Her Majesty The Queen, with representatives having been invited from councils, education, military and emergency services as well as faith groups, charities, and businesses.
The Cathedral’s doors were open for anyone to attend, although seating was limited and reserved on a first come first served basis.
On behalf of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, the borough’s Mayor, Cllr Suleman Khonat was joined by Council Leader, Cllr Phil Riley and Council Chief Officer Paul Fleming.
Community leaders and residents shared their experiences of attending the poignant service and their personal memories.
The Mayor said: “The moving service was a fitting and emotional tribute for our county’s people to pay their respects.
“It was a way of uniting the whole ceremonial county and Lancashire’s people in our expression of sadness and shock at the loss of our dear Queen.
“My thanks go to the Cathedral for planning and hosting such a well organised event, an event of great significance.”
Cllr Riley said: “This service was a further opportunity for us to remember Her Majesty and give thanks for her long and remarkable life, and for her faithful devotion to this nation and the Royal family.”
He added: “I’m particularly pleased that residents were to able to be part of this momentous occasion that will forever be remembered by all those who attended and watched online.”
Paul Fleming said: “In coming together to celebrate her life, to reflect and to offer prayers for our new King and the Royal Family, we were able to share a fitting memorial for someone who was so significant to the life of the county.”
Memorial services, vigils, spaces to place tributes and books of condolences have appeared in almost every town and village over the last week, allowing residents to express their gratitude for Her Majesty’s life of dedication and service to the British people.
The Dean of Blackburn, the Very Rev. Peter Howell-Jones, spoke to those attending the service at Blackburn Cathedral, where the Lancashire Platinum Jubilee Tapestry is also currently on display, featuring images of the Queen’s past visits to the county.
The Dean said: “It’s often in times of crisis, uncertainty and indeed grief we begin to think again about what life is all about and how we can make sense of all that’s going on around us.
“Today you may be struggling with your own grief; or stressed about making ends meet; or facing challenges in your own family or community.
“Finding that anchor in life can provide a real sense of hope and security as it did for our Queen.”
The borough too joins together today to say ‘Thank you Ma’am’
You can watch the special commemoration service here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zW0Ud6n5Qc