09-05-2025
Fire crews called to church after beacon lit to mark momentous occasion
Fire crews were called late last night to the town centre after onlookers believed they saw a church on fire.
Shortly before 10pm, three fire engines arrived outside Bolton Parish Church following a call from a concerned local.
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 plain and simple as that really."
However, it turned out to be nothing more than part of the town's celebrations for VE Day.
The beacon on top of Bolton Parish Church had been lit to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.
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Mr Martin said: "On inspection it became clear it was just a lit beacon.
"We were there for literally five minutes, had a quick chat with everyone there and shook hands with a few of the veterans!
"And that was it."
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VE Day has been celebrated throughout the UK to mark the significant anniversary of the war's end in Europe.
Bolton Parish Church held a service starting at 7.30pm on Thursday evening (May 8) to mark the momentous occasion.
The night saw locals gather to remember those who bravely lost their lives during the war.
Wreaths were laid by the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Andy Morgan and Diane Hawkins, lord lieutenant of Greater Manchester.
After the service, Bolton Hoover Brass Band performed before the grand finale – the beacon being lit on top of the church tower – took place at 9.30pm.
