FINAL preparations are under way for the start of First World War commemorations in Hyndburn.

The huge Accrington Pals banner covering offices in Broadway will be officially unveiled from noon on Sunday, followed by a memorial service at St John the Evangelist Church at 3pm.

The event will mark the start of a four-year programme remembering East Lancashire soldiers who laid down their life for their country.

The Mayor of Hyndburn, Judith Addison, will be joined by special guest, Pals historian Bill Turner’s widow Ruth, at the launch event, which will also see 100 ballons released - one for year that has passed since the start of the war in 1914.