THE annual service of commemoration for Oliver Cromwell will take place in Worcester for the first time on Saturday, September 1.

The event, organised by the Cromwell Association, is usually held by the statue of Cromwell in Parliament Square, London, but because of building works this year, an alternative venue had to be found.

The service will be held in the lady chapel of Worcester Cathedral at 2.15pm and all are welcome to attend.

The address will be given by Professor Peter Gaunt, the president of the association, on the theme of Cromwell and Worcester.

Prior to the service at 1.45pm, a wreath honouring Cromwell and all those who died in the civil wars, will be laid at the Commandery.

September 3, 1651, saw Oliver Cromwell’s decisive military victory at Worcester over the Royalist army led by Charles Stuart. It was the last episode in the bloody conflict which tore England and the home nations apart from 1642 onwards.