The Battle of Mons, in Belgium, took place in August 1914 and was the first big engagement of the British Expeditionary Force. At Mons, the British Army attempted to hold the line of the Mons-Conde Canal against the advancing Germany First Army.

The British were outnumbered and had to retreat over two weeks, to the outskirts of Paris, before a counter-attack with the French.

The Royal Fusiliers faced some of the worst fighting in the battle and earned the first Victoria Cross of the war.

Many thanks to the Mayor of Sefton, Cllr Jennifer Corcoran for the invitation to the Service and the opportunity to meet the Mayor of Mons.

The Service was poignant as we remembered those who gave their lives, those who returned, and those who waited at home. Lest we forget.