SOLDIERS who fought in the First World War were honoured at a special event in Widnes on Saturday.

Despite heavy rain, veterans, schoolchildren, air force cadets, dignitaries and members of the public joined together with the Widnes branch of the Royal British Legion and the Widnes Royal Artillery at Victoria Park for a parade and service of commemoration to mark 100 years since the end of the Great War.

The parade was led by the 'Thank You' bus supplied by Stagecoach to remember those who fought in the war as well as the people who stayed at home to 'keep the home fires burning' and was followed by a commemoration service.

Twenty-three schools made their own plaques featuring the names of the men on the town's war memorial which were laid along with wreaths in memory of the fallen soldiers.

Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs joined politicians including MP Derek Twigg for the service, which ended with the singing of the National Anthem.

Following the service a fun day was held with a number of stalls, as well as a fun fair and inflatable assault course.

Entertainment was provided on the bandstand with the Splinters Street Band, Widnes Ukelele Band, Air Force Cadet band and Irish Guards Choir performing during the heavy downpours.

Spokesman Mike McNicholas said the British Legion was delighted with the turnout despite the poor weather and thanked everyone who had turned out for the occasion.

He added: "Even the rain could not keep people away to participate in the ceremony to remember the men from Widnes who gave their lives in the Great War.

"Unfortunately the fun day closed early as the rainwater continued and became a safety hazard and the electric supply was lost.

"We would like to thank all who attended some had travelled from North Wales, Lancashire and Merseyside to honour their relatives. We also send our thanks to Lloyds, Santander, Suttons, St John Ambulance and the emergency services for supporting the event."

All donations made will go to the Royal British Legion's Poppy Fund.