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Preston Church to Receive Burma Standard

Burma 1- release immediate

A Preston church is to provide a final home for the Standard of the Burma Star Association, following the Association’s closure. Christ Church, Fulwood will officially receive the Standard on Sunday (April 24) as part of the morning service (beginning at 10.30 am.). The Standard will then be ‘laid up’ in the church for safe keeping. The Burma Star Association, made up of men and women who served in the Navy, Merchant Navy, Army and Air Force during the Burma Campaign of the Second World War , has existed in Preston since the early 1960s. In recent years the age and deteriorating health of its members has meant that it has become increasingly difficult to sustain the Association, said a spokesman. “The closing of the Association left the question as to where the Standard of the Association should be laid.” An approach was made to the Rev Brian McConkey, Vicar of Christ Church, and his church council. “We replied that we would be honoured to accept the Standard, said Mr McConkey. Burma Star Association members in Preston will continue to meet on a social basis.

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For further information: please contact the Rev Brian McConkey (01772) 719 210 or email to christchurchfulwood@btinternet.com or Mr Stuart McTaggart (Association member): (01772) 719 228. Release issued by Martyn Halsall, diocesan communications: 01204 384 996 Photo opportunity: at Christ Church, Fulwood, on Victoria Road, 10 am. to 10-10 am. on Sunday, April 24. (Advance notice would be appreciated). http://www.blackburn.anglican.org/pressrel/20050418.pdf Photo of the Standard from the Preston Branch of the Burma Star Association in Church on Sunday 24th April