Students remember Walton Pals

Students from Alsop High School made a poignant pilgrimage to France to remember the local men who sacrificed their lives during World War One.

The students laid a wreath at Thiepval to remember Percy Tucker and the 29 young men from Walton Church who gave their lives during the Battle of the Somme. These Walton “Pals” joined together, fought together and together they sacrificed their lives.

The students also visited Brandhoek New Military Cemetery in Belgium and visited the grave of Noel Chavasse, VC, the son of the Bishop of LIverpool who was killed in action during 1917.
Here Alsop students participated in a short act of remembrance and laid a wreath on behalf of The Bishop of Liverpool, the Rt Rev Paul Bayes.

On the wreath Bishop Paul wrote: “In remembrance of the courage of Noel Chavasse and for those who died in all wars and with prayers for a peaceful future. From all at the Anglican Diocese of Liverpool.”

Headteacher Mr Wilson said: “We are honoured that Alsop students have participated in this poignant journey. Young people need to learn from history and the tragedy of war to build a better future.”

Mr Colin McCormick, head of history at Alsop, said: “The story of the Walton Pals helps young people to reflect upon and connect with history. This was a emotional visit and young people made a commitment to continue to work for peace and reconciliation in Europe”