BLACKBURN Cathedral was full to capacity for Remembrance Sunday as hundreds gathered to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The annual event that pays tribute to British servicemen and women killed in conflicts across the world was given extra poignancy in the town by the death of marine David Fairbrother late last year.

Speaking at today's service, Canon Andrew Hindley said: “In my office I have a photograph of David Fairbrother. His funeral here lives in my memory. Those memories are so clear. A poignant, yet dignified scene. “I want to say those who died in service of their country did not in vein and did so purposefully.

“Today should be a day of passion and that is why there are more people here than I can ever remember in this cathedral.”

Following the service there was a procession from King William Street to Corporation Park, where wreaths were laid on the war memorial after a minute’s silence.

Blackburn with Darwen mayor Coun Zamir Khan said: “Everyone should come together on this day, no matter what race or colour.

“My father served in the Second World War, as well as some of my uncles. “I am really proud to be here as mayor and it was good to see so many people.”

Hundreds of people gathered for a service at the Cenotaph in Oakhill Park, Accrington, followed by a parade back to the town hall. A minute’s silence was observed ahead of Blackburn Rovers’ match against Birmingham at Ewood Park and Accrington Stanley’s game against Northampton at the Crown Ground.

At the Black Horse pub in Darwen, a tug of war event raising money for Help For Heroes and the Poppy Appeal took place between ex-servicemen and women and civilians.