THE annual service for road accident victims in Wyre Forest struck a particularly poignant note this year as it was held on the 19th anniversary of the Hagley RC High School minibus tragedy.

Twelve students and their teacher died when their bus crashed into a maintenance lorry parked on the hard shoulder of the M40 after a school trip to a London concert on November 18, 1993.

Father Douglas Lamb, who was among those who ministered to grieving families at the time of the accident, hosted Sunday’s RoadPeace ceremony at St Ambrose’s RC Church in Kidderminster.

More than 60 names of those who have lost their lives on roads were read out by Father Lamb and Canon Paul Brothwell who led the prayers.

They began with the names of the 12 Hagley pupils – Charlotte Bligh, Ruth Clark, Fiona Cook, Claire Fitzgerald, Louice Gunn, James Hickman, Adele Howell, Anna Mansell, Nicola Misiolek, Richard Pagett, Charlene O’Dowd, and Katie Murray – and their teacher Eleanor Fry, 35.

At the same time many of the congregation lit candles in memory of loved ones who have died on the roads.

The service was attended by more than 100 people and the address was given by hospital chaplain Rev David Southall, who spoke of the shock and grief caused by road deaths and how remembering and telling their loved one’s stories helped the healing process.

Members of the police, fire, ambulance, medical and media communities also took part in the prayers.

Musical contributions came from the Friends of Wilden Singers and organist Margaret Tillott.

More information about RoadPeace Wyre Forest can be obtained from Canon Brothwell on 01299 823495.