Every year, Stretford joins towns and villages across the UK and the Commonwealth on the second Sunday in November to honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Traditionally, representatives of parading organisations lay wreaths at the Stretford War Memorial, processing from The Metro's Club on Moss Road. After the service, they return along Chester Road to The Metro's Club via Davyhulme Road East.
But for Remembrance Sunday 2024, Trafford Council has chosen to disrespect this tradition by changing the procession to a much shorter route to start and end at Stretford Sport Village, all to accommodate a Manchester United match at Old Trafford with a 2pm kick-off.
Trafford Council is led by Cllr. Tom Ross of the Labour Party and the Chief Executive is Sara Todd, both of whom sit on the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, created to explore options for the proposed redevelopment of Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium.
Commenting, Terry Burke, Community Chair of Stretford War Memorial said:
“Many local residents have told me how disappointed they are that Trafford Council has prioritised a football match over honouring local heroes who gave their lives for our freedom.”
Commenting, Stretford resident and spokesperson for North Trafford Local Conservatives, Tracey Haworth said:
“The council has confirmed to us that they made this appalling decision internally and without consultation. Those responsible should be held accountable. We call on the council to reverse this decision and apologise to the residents of Stretford and beyond for the hurt they have caused.”
