Fire crews attend ‘church roof in flames’ to find out it was celebratory VE Day anniversary beacon

Fire crews were called to a church on Thursday night after reports that the roof was in flames.

Around 10pm on Thursday, May 8 Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue recieved a report of a fire at Bolton Parish Church.

However, after three crews arrived at the scene in the town centre it soon became clear that flames emanating from the roof were the beacon lit to mark the conclusion of the borough’s VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations.

Dan Martin, watch manager for Bolton Central fire station, said: “A passer-by saw the flame up top and assumed it was a fire, it’s as simple as that really.

“It turned out to be nothing more than part of the town’s celebrations for VE Day.

“We were there for literally five minutes, had a quick chat with everyone there and shook hands with a few of the veterans.”

Bolton’s beacon lighting was one hundreds across the nation which took place at at 9.30pm yesterday in a symbol of unified remembrance.

Earlier a service to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day was described by the Mayor of Bolton, Coun Andy Morgan as ‘a truly moving and unforgettable occasion’.

More than 600 people gathered in the heart of the town at the Parish Church to honour the sacrifice made by so many in the name of freedom and peace.

Coun Morgan, said: “It was a powerful reminder of the strength of our community and the deep respect we continue to show for those who came before us.

“The celebration was made even more special by the incredible performances from the Parish Church music team, the Hoover Band and the
stirring presence of the lone piper. “The service concluded with a spectacular moment as the beacon was lit.

“It made me incredibly proud as Mayor, but also as a resident of this remarkable town, to have played just a small part in such a significant event.

“Thank you to all our veterans and cadets that paraded and everyone else that paid their respects.”