FIRST World War commemorations are set to get under way in Hyndburn.

A huge 7.5m by 65m banner, covering offices in Broadway, Accrington, has been put up, and balloons will be launched before a memorial service, on Sunday, February 16.

Veterans, dignitaries and politicians are expected to attend, alongside family members of the Accrington Pals, and the public, from 1pm.

The widow of Pals historian and author Bill Turner, Ruth, will be a special guest at the event, part of national commemorations to mark the centenary of the start of the First World War.

She said: “Chronicling the history of the Pals, and recognition for their bravery, was my late husband’s life’s work and I’m happy to be able to represent him on this momentous occasion.”

A service will be held from 3pm at St John the Evangelist Church, in Addison Street.

The banner features several images of soldiers from the regiment, formally known as the 11th East Lancashire Regiment, posing, sitting, and marching, accompanied by large images of the Union Jack, and poppies.