Wreath is laid for

A SPECIAL service has been held at St Chad's war memorial for Winsford-born war hero George Lightfoot, who died 80 years ago.

Mayor Clr Pam Booher and Royal British Legion representatives laid a wreath for Mr Lightfoot, who was killed in France in 1918.

The service was arranged following a request made to Winsford Town Council by his nephew Tony Lightfoot, who asked if the council could help him find someone to lay a wreath in memory of his father's youngest brother.

Due to ill health, Tony, who lives in Lowestoft, was unable to make it to Winsford to commemorate the anniversary of his uncle's death.

In a letter to the town council, Tony explained he was in a "desperate situation."

He said: "All my life I have wanted to visit his grave in France, but family commitments and poor health have always formed a barrier.

"This year, being the 80th anniversary of his death, I planned to drive to Winsford to lay a wreath on the local memorial.

"Once again fate has dealt a bad hand. On June 25 I had a total knee replacement due to osteoarthritis. The operation has failed and I am now doubtful about my ability to drive that distance.

"I am seeking help to find a local member of the British Legion or somebody who would place flowers on behalf of myself and my family.

"My greatest hero is my father's youngest brother George Lightfoot. He died of his wound on September 29, 1918, and every year on Armistice Day I place a cross to his memory at Lowestoft war memorial."

Clr Booher, who took part in the service last Tuesday night, said: "We were glad to help him out. The British Legion organised it together with the town council.

"It was a lovely service of about half-an-hour led by Paul Cieka of Trinity Methodist Church."

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