PRIMARY schools and veterans have joined together to remember ex-pupils killed during the two world wars.

A special service was held at Padgate Cenotaph on Monday where Oakwood Avenue and Christ Church primary schools honoured the fallen soldiers with Hub Lions Veterans.

Every year the two schools identify a soldier and ex-pupil named on the cenotaph and the children help to bring their memory to life.

This year, the soldiers chosen, Private Robert Hutchinson of the Black Watch and Trooper Clifford Walton of the Royal Scots Grays, were involved in the D-Day invasion and died a few days after the initial landing.

The order of service included a copy of their obituaries which were published in the Warrington Guardian.

Farzana Ashraf, assistant headteacher from Oakwood Avenue said: "It’s been an absolute privilege to take part in such a special service, which means so much to our children, our schools and our families.

"This is real learning."

Robert Hutchinson’s family have a long link with Oakwood Avenue and his daughter Brenda and great granddaughter Libby, who is currently in year six, both attended the service.

Wreaths made by pupils were placed by Robert and Clifford's names on the cenotaph, followed by the other 34 soldiers being remembered by the children.

Fran Sixsmith, of Medley Music, had written a new song for this year’s service using the words written on the headstone of a former Oakwood Avenue pupil, Harry Kenwright.

His story is told each year at both schools and has provided the inspiration for the children to learn more about their fallen ex-pupils.

Fran said: "It was a truly moving service and I was proud to be a part of it singing with the children.

"It was a particularly poignant moment to use the words on Harry’s grave in one of the songs- your call sudden, last thoughts unknown, a sheaf of golden memories we own."