Churches in West Craven will open their doors to visitors on Monday to commemorate the centenary of the start of the First World War.
St Mary-le-Ghyll Church will be open from 10am until 4pm to reflect on the enormity of the events that followed the decision to go to war and to remember the personal sacrifices made by those from Barnoldswick in particular.
The church will open with the ringing of the bells half-muffled and a short prayer service will be held either inside or outside, weather permitting, at 12 noon, led by the Rev. Diane Weaver, preceded by the tolling of a single bell.
In addition, anybody wishing to visit any of the graves for quiet reflection and to pay their respects will be directed to their locations.
There will also be a small exhibition relating to the loss of HMHS Rohilla, in respect of the 12 members of the crew from Barnoldswick who lost their lives in its wrecking off Whitby in 1914.
Light refreshments will be available in the Coach-house with recordings of music hall songs and soldiers’ songs associated with the war and the event will close at 3pm with the ringing of the bells.
Similarly in Earby, All Saints’ Church will open at 10am for anybody wanting to remember those from the town and its historic district who went to fight and did not return, while St Mary’s Church in Kelbrook will open at 11am.
There will be the opportunity to light a candle and light refreshments will be on hand.
At All Saints’, there will be a service at 7-30pm to round off the day, with readings and prayers for peace led by the Rev. Hugh Fielden.