OTLEY will join a worldwide tribute to the fallen of the First World War next month.

The town is taking part in Battle’s Over on Sunday, November 11, when hundreds of communities will be holding events to mark the centenary of Armistice Day.

The occasion will see more than 1,300 pipers around the world playing When the Battle’s O’er at 6am local time.

Many communities will also be having buglers playing The Last Post simultaneously, while some 140 town criers will recite A Cry For Peace Around the World at 7.05pm.

Hilltop beacons will be lit in many areas, too, and more than 1,000 churches will ring their bells to bring the day to a conclusion.

Otley will complement its usual Remembrance events by joining in the Cry for Peace, and Town Bellman Terry Ford will be at the thick of the action.

He said: “I will be at the Cenotaph at 11am for the sounding of the Last Post, then at 2pm I’ll be marshalling the Remembrance Day Parade to the Bridge Church and going on to the Memorial Garden for the laying of wreaths.

“Back in the Memorial Garden at 7.05pm I, with town criers across the UK, will deliver A Cry For Peace Around The World.

“The cry will start in New Zealand at 7.05pm their time and then cross each time zone, and will be followed by the sounding of church bells.

“I’m deeply honoured to represent Otley and I’m sure everyone will agree that those sacrifices made for us across the years should never be forgotten.”

Otley Town Council Chair Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) said: “We warmly welcome everyone who wishes to witness the final cry to join us for what will be a special and poignant moment.

“While this year is such a significant anniversary to mark the centenary of the Armistice, ensuring that the sacrifices made by so many for our freedoms are properly remembered will always be a priority.”

“Otley’s MP Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds North West) added: “It is fantastic to see the town take part in the centenary celebrations.

“Otley will always remember those from the town who signed up to fight in the First World War, and this will be a fitting tribute.”