Events in the North West.

Every year more people are killed at work than in wars. Most don't die of mystery ailments, or in tragic "accidents". They die because an employer decided their safety just wasn't that important a priority. International Workers' Memorial Day (IWMD) commemorates those workers and serves as a rallying cry to 'remember the dead, but fight for the living'.

IWMD is held on 28 April every year. All over the world workers and their representatives conduct events, demonstrations, vigils and a whole host of other activities to mark the day.

Below are some of the events that are happening in the North West. Please note that some events are held on Friday 27 April

Blackburn

Organised by Blackburn and district Trades Union Council. Assemble 12.30, Sudell Cross, Blackburn, BB2 1AN. For more information contact [email protected]

Bolton

There will be a minutes silence at 12 noon in Bolton Town Hall Square, BL1 1RU. Stewards will be distributing leaflets and purple ribbons to commemorate all those who have been killed at work. Bolton council has agreed to fly the flag at half mast. For more information contact [email protected] / 01204 338901.

Chorley

There will be a memorial service on Friday 27 April, 17:45 at the IWMD tree planted in Astley Park. Meet at the Park Gates , Park Road, Chorley, PR7.

Manchester

Saturday 28 April, 12:00 to 13.00 in Albert Square, Manchester, M2 4JW. The theme is “Unions make work safer”. There will be music, a play, trade union and family speakers. In addition there will be an exhibition at the People’s History Museum (New Ct St, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3ER) and more events during the week.

Liverpool

Saturday 28 April, 11:00 (assemble 10:45) on the South Piazza of George's Parade, Pier Head, Liverpool L3 1DP (corner of Mann Island and the Strand) for commemoration and wreath-laying with speeches from 11:30 at Church of Our Lady and Saint Nicholas, 5 Old Church Yard, Liverpool L2 8GW (off Chapel Street).

Saturday 28 April at 11:30, The Hod Carrier, Islington, Liverpool, L3 8EG (opposite the UNITE building).

Preston

Saturday 28 April, Flag Market, Cheapside, Preston, PR1 2AP. For further info contact [email protected]

Salford

Friday 27 April, 12.15, Wreath-laying at the Workers Memorial stone and plaque situated on the lawn area between the Civic Centre main entrance (Chorley Road, Swinton, M27 5AW) and Unity House.

For resources on Workers Memorial Day including posters, ribbons and car stickers please contact the Greater Manchester Hazards centre at: [email protected].