Trafford Veterans Breakfast

Posted at 11:46 am on 4th March, 2020

Wellacre Cadets Join Local War Heroes

On Saturday 22nd February, Wellacre’s CCF Navy cadets and staff officers were invited to the Trafford Veterans’ Breakfast at the John Alker Club, Flixton. 

This was a special veterans’ breakfast to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of John Alker, local business man and land owner, who fought in World War 1. 

Wellacre CCF cadets, Lewis and Ryan, joined St Antonys CCF Police cadets and the 182 North Trafford Air Cadets, two of which are part of the Wellacre CCF unit, Adam and Max.  

The Mayor of Trafford, Cllr Rob Chilton, and the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mark Alderstone OBE DL, were in attendance alongside many military veterans from the community, including SAS veterans of World War 2.  

Wellacre cadet Lewis, Year 9, said:

“It was privileged to have sat next to and meet an SAS World War 2 Veteran!” 

Entertainment was provided by The Cheshire Drums and Bugles, who played the "Last Post” and “Reveille," as well as various Regimental Marches. 

Wellacre’s Cadet Unit WO2 (SSM) SSI and Assistant Head of House, Mr Ward, said: 

“It was an honour for Wellacre cadets to be invited to the Trafford Veterans’ Breakfast.  They enjoyed interacting with veterans within the community and hearing their stories. They all had a great sense of pride and belonging when wearing the CCF uniform alongside others in the services and represented themselves and the unit admirably.”

The John Alker Club was built in his memory when he died in 1920 by his wife Sabina, in memory of all those who served in World War 1 and future conflicts.  The social club was created as a place for former soldiers to meet and be entertained, and continues to be used for this purpose to celebrate and honour their service.