Remembrance Day parades are scrapped as plans are considered for honouring Wigan's war heroes during pandemic

The 14 events usually held across the borough by Wigan Council cannot take place as usual this November due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But council bosses are looking at how tributes can still be paid to the men and women who put their lives on the line.

Plans are being reviewed to ensure they comply with coronavirus restrictions imposed by the Government, but it is hoped services could be held on Sunday, November 8 at Wigan Parish Church and Leigh Parish Church.

Up to 50 people could attend each one and the Mayor of Wigan, Coun Steve Dawber, will lay a wreath after the service in Wigan, while his deputy Coun Michael McLoughlin will do the same in Leigh.

Parades will not take place, but people will be able to lay their own wreaths at the war memorials throughout the day, with signs on the floor to allow for social distancing.

The other commemorations usually held around the borough are not expected to go ahead this year due to the pandemic, but arrangements could be made for wreath-laying at other memorials.

John Harker, the council’s strategic armed forces manager said: “We plan to scale back our Remembrance Sunday services in the interest of public health, in line with government guidance.

“New government restrictions prevent social gatherings of more than six people so we are assessing our plans should this remain in place in November.

“Due to social distancing and the high level of attendees and support across the borough no parades or outdoor events are advised. We would like to conduct two church services and in addition to this wreath-laying will be possible at the town centre cenotaphs. At the moment we encourage people to pay their respects throughout the day to avoid the build-up of large gatherings.

“We will keep the public updated with our arrangements. This is obviously a constantly changing picture but we are committed to looking at how we can acknowledge our veterans and armed forces community on this poignant day.”