Commemorative events to be held around 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 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:

Bolton – Sunday 28 April

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. 

Blackburn – Friday 26 April

12.30-13.15  in front of Blackburn Town Hall, Shopping precinct, Blackburn town centre.  Pipers lament and banners, speakers from local trade union branches and safety campaigns.  Laying of wreaths followed by 2 minutes remembrance.

Chorley – Friday 26 April

17.45 for 18.00 at Astley Park with speakers and laying of wreaths. 

Liverpool – Sunday 28 April (2 events)

11.15 for 11.30 at the South Piazza of George’s Dock Building Pier Head for commemoration and wreath laying followed by 12.00 event at The Racquet Club, Chapel Street  and 2 speakers at 12.30pm.

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

Manchester – Sunday 28 April

12.00 to 13.00 in Albert Square with music, speakers, street performance, and laying of wreaths and exhibition at People's History Museum. 

Preston – Saturday 27 April

11.45 for 12.00 start til 13:00 at Preston Flag Market. Speakers and a march to lay wreaths at peace garden followed by refreshments in Blackhorse. 

Salford – Friday 26 April

12.15 start with 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.