A famous World War II motorbike will take centre stage in a special D-Day anniversary procession at this year’s #AmazingAccrington Food & Drink Festival on Saturday 6th June.
The 1944 BSA M20 motorbike will lead the procession, accompanied by a lone piper from the world-renowned Accrington Pipe Band. Setting off at approximately 12:15pm from behind the Canine Club on Barnes Street, the procession will travel along Blackburn Road and Church Street before concluding at the Accrington Pals Memorial Garden next to St James’ Church (Accrington), where a short commemorative service will take place organised by St James’ Church.
Marking the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, the procession will feature representatives from air, sea, army and police cadets, as well as the Royal British Legion, creating a poignant moment of remembrance in the heart of the town.
The iconic WWII motorbike is being brought to Accrington by the Veterans Living History Museum (VLHM) and has its own remarkable story. In 2022, it was part of “Op Banham,” an extraordinary journey retracing the route of Lancashire-born WWII despatch rider Lewis Banham.
The journey began on Gold Beach in Normandy, where Lewis landed in June 1944, and continued through France, Belgium, Holland and Germany, finishing at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, where Lewis himself was present to mark the occasion.
Following the procession, the BSA M20 will be on display in Accrington Town Square as part of an extensive showcase by the VLHM, which houses thousands of artefacts dating back to World War I. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of interactive and visual attractions, including a large-scale military display featuring over 20 mannequins in uniform, as well as a special paintballing experience.
The town square will also host an impressive collection of military vehicles, including a full-size P51D Mustang and a Hurricane Experience, both available for photo opportunities, with the Hurricane’s engine running at intervals throughout the day.
Additional highlights include an FV107 Scimitar tank, a KrAZ-255 Soviet-era off-road truck, a WWII jeep, a Military Defender 110 and more. These displays and activities will be available from 10am to 4pm and are free for visitors to enjoy.
Commemorations will continue at 1pm in the grounds of St James’ Church on Canon Street, featuring a D-Day re-enactment hosted by Stephen Lowe and a performance from the lone piper.
Earlier in the day, 1940s performers Christopher & The Robins will entertain audiences between 10:30am and 12:30pm at the church, before returning for a special performance alongside dance students from Burnley College at 2pm in the Taste of Hyndburn Tent on Blackburn Road.
Visitors are being encouraged to attend in 1940s dress to create an incredible 1940s scene.
Adding to the immersive atmosphere, Frankie’s Café in Broadway will be transformed into “Café René” for the day, serving a French-themed menu in a nod to wartime Europe.
All of this forms part of the much-loved #AmazingAccrington Food & Drink Festival, sponsored by Hyndburn Borough Council and Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa, which will feature a wide array of food and drink stalls, live cooking demonstrations, a chilli challenge, funfair rides and much more for visitors of all ages.
Murray Dawson, Chair of #AmazingAccrington and Managing Director of Scott Dawson Advertising, said: “It’s very rare that the food festival actually falls on the exact anniversary of D-Day, so we wanted to do something special to commemorate it, with the procession and the WWII bike. There’s lots going on and plenty to see on the day, so make sure you come and join us.”
To stay up to date with the latest news and announcements, visit www.amazingaccrington.co.uk
