Two days after turning out to witness the unveiling of the Chorley Pals Memorial, the good people of the town turned out again to pay their respects today (Tuesday) to a local soldier killed in Afghanistan.
WO2 Markland’s coffin is carried into St. George’s Church
Thirty-six year old Warrant Officer David Markland from Euxton near Chorley was killed on the 8th February whilst defusing an IED (Improvised Explosive Device). His funeral was held at St. George’s Church, where just a week ago the Chorley Pals were commemorated in a service attended by the Mayor, Cllr. Iris Smith and the town’s MP, Lindsay Hoyle – both were at the funeral today.
A card on a floral tribute left on the Chorley Pals Memorial after the funeral
After the funeral a member of the public placed a floral tribute to WO2 Markland on the Chorley Pals Memorial, joining wreaths of red poppies laid for the Chorley Pals.
The Chorley Pals Memorial charity has applied for funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund for the names of the fallen from the town in all conflicts to go on to the Cenotaph in Astley Park. A decision is expected by the 16th March and the project will be known as “Chorley Remembers”.
“At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them”.
Steve Williams
Secretary, Chorley Pals Memorial
