CALLS are being made for Blackpool's schoolchildren to be given a half day off lessons to take part in the resort's Veterans' Day celebrations.
Thousands of ex-Service men and women are expected in the resort for the national commemoration service on Friday June 27 alongside a top secret VIP.
But it is feared the resort's schoolchildren will miss out on the summer's biggest event because
they will be in classes.
Organisers believe there would be an educational benefit from taking part in a "living history lesson" and have already expressed an intention to get youngsters involved in the festivities.
Coun Julian Mineur, one of the organisers of the event, is writing to the education department about the idea.
He said: "It's not really a day off school but rather a chance to be part of history and experience living history.
"One of the key messages of the event is the dialogue between the generations and teaching young people about what veterans of all conflicts have done in their name.
"It is a wonderful testament to Blackpool that we are hosting only the second Veterans' Day and the interest from around the country is phenomenal. It would be a shame for our children to miss out."
Maj Jim Houldsworth, chairman of the Fylde Ex-Service Liaison Committee, also hopes schools will want to get involved and put forward groups willing to perform at a Veterans' Day concert at the cenotaph.
He said: "It is very important for children to be included in our plans and we want them to play an official part in proceedings.
"Bringing the generations together, breaking down barriers and helping improve the understanding between young and old, is one of the aims of Veterans Week."
Under the proposal, the resort's schoolchildren would be invited to line the route to the cenotaph and take part in a performance of dance, drama and music after the official Veterans' Day service with veterans, civic dignitaries and Veterans' Minister, Derek Twigg.
Ros Homer, Blackpool's National Union of Teachers branch secretary, has given the suggestion a cautious welcome.
She said: "It's a marvellous idea to get children involved in the events. They cover the Second World War in Year 6 and it would be a great opportunity for them to learn about such important events from the people who lived them.
"But I wouldn't want to see children simply given a day off school and I don't think it's feasible to have every schoolchild in Blackpool at the cenotaph at the same time. It could prove difficult and it might be better arranging events in school.
"But I think it is an interesting idea and one worth exploring."
