Charlie’s still setting the standard 25 years on!

73-year-old’s long RBL connection

ARMY veteran Charlie Dean is marking his 25th year as the standard bearer at Abbey Hulton’s Remembrance Day parade.

The 73-year-old community stalwart is being recognised tomorrow for his long service, and for his long-standing connection with the Royal British Legion.

Charlie, pictured right, has been involved in the veterans’ charity for more than four decades, having previously served in Northern Ireland.

Abbey Hulton councillor Melanie Baddeley said: “Charlie always makes sure that the Remembrance service is marked.

“He has been involved with Abbey Hulton Royal British Legion for 40 years and has been a standard bearer for 25 years.”

Charlie took up the reins from his friend Ernie Cordon, who was also highly regarded in the community and as a standard bearer.

And Charlie still wears the same tie as Ernie did when he heads out on parade, as a sign of respect.

Last year, Charlie’s granddaughter, 22-year-old Antonia Dean, began to pick up the reins by carrying the standard alongside him.

She is set to do the same this year, and it is hoped she might take over from him in future years.

Charlie’s wife, Pamela said: “We’ve always been proud of him. He served seven years in the Army – in the Cheshires – so it’s always been very close to his heart.

“We’re just proud of him, everybody is really – and he never asks for any recognition.”

Pamela is planning to mark the occasion with a gathering, and is pleased that more people will be taking part in the service this year, with St John’s Church now involved in the parade.

“We said we’d make this a big thing for him, just as a thank you for all that he’s done,” she said.

“Even in the lockdown we went across to lay a wreath at the cenotaph and we went outside and did the standards. It’s always been in his heart.” She added: “We’ve lost quite a few of our friends who were veterans, and this year we’re missing a few more of them unfortunately.”

The march will start from Abbey Hulton Sports and Social Club at 10am, before a short service at Carmountside Chapel, led by Rev Malcolm from St John’s Church.