Lib Dems condemn row over Remembrance Service

The unofficial Remembrance Day Service at The Cenotaph in Warrington has led to controversy between the Conservative and Labour Parties. Around 200 people gathered in the centre of town despite the official event having been called off by the Council because of COVID restrictions.

Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Warrington Council, Cllr Bob Barr said: A representative from my Party obeyed the Council's instructions and did not attend to lay a wreath because the event was cancelled. He, and a small number of my colleagues, attended events in their own parishes. The one in Lymm was well organised, socially distanced and the names of everyone present were recorded.

Despite requests from the Council for people not to attend The Cenotaph, the two most senior Conservatives in Warrington were present, although not formally invited. The Labour Deputy Leader of the Council laid a wreath as the Council Leader watched with members of the public. Another example of one rule for some politicians and another for everyone else.

The Council has now asked the Police to review the event despite a Police presence there. People would like to know who organised it. How many people raised concerns? Were social distancing and other COVID secure measures adhered to? Did the organisers record the names of people present? Were any offences committed by those attending by being there?

Remembrance Services are an important way to stop and commemorate those who died in the service of their country, and for future generations. It is a great shame that party politics has come into this when Remembrance Day should be about unity not division. We await the result of the Police investigation with interest.