12 MOSSLEY
November 16, 2023
In Remembrance Lest we forget
Mossley
Former student honoured in school Remembrance service
Pupils at Mossley Hollins observed a two-min- ute silence on Friday as they marked this year’s Remembrance, including honouring one of their own. Students and staff stood attentively to pay their respects and listen as members of each year group read from a passage, in honour of those who had served. The focal point of the service was to remember former Mossley Hollins student Joseph Etchells. Corporal Joseph Etchells of 2nd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, was killed in Af- ghanistan on Sunday, July 19, 2009. The service was also attended by the Civic Mayor of Tameside and Mossley councillor Taf- heen Sharif, together with other local dignitaries. They paid their respects to Cpl Etchells by lay- ing a wreath at the base of a tree that was plant- ed, to dedicate his life. Local PSCO’s also laid a wreath in his remembrance. Headteacher Andrea Din said. “We are paying tribute to Armistice Day, but of course it is closer to home for us because of Corporal Joseph Etch- ells who died in combat in 2009. “The whole school community still remember Joey, and members of our community are related to him,” Andrea said. For Mossley Hollins, the men who gave their lives in both world wars and conflicts since, live on alongside the honouring of Corporal Etchells. The ceremony paid tribute to the wider spec- trum of all service people who gave their lives. Andrea added: “I think it’s good for us all to take the time to remember the sacrifices of people in the past, and to be thankful for where we are today. “For our young students, particularly those in the cadets, it is important for them to lay crosses and pay their respects.” Around 890 students and 80 staff were present for the service, including the special guests. Andrea stated: “It was really great to see the mayor and councillors attending the service.” IN REMEMBRANCE: Mossley Hollins stu- dents and staff pay their respects.
SOLEMN SALUTE: Honouring the fallen at the school and below, the Mayor lays a wreath for Cpl Etchells.
RESPECTS: Headteacher Andrea Din at the service, and below, wreaths laid in memory of Corporal Joseph Etchells.
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