THE anniversary of the start of the Falklands War was remembered in Lydney on Saturday (April 2) – 40 years to the day since Argentine forces occupied the South Atlantic islands.

The commemoration, which was organised by the Lydney branch of the Royal British Legion, was in two parts.

At 11am, there was a service and laying of wreaths at the town’s war memorial.

That was followed by the planting of a commemorative tree in Bathurst Park and a talk by Falklands veteran Mark Ashton at the Watney Hall.

Wreaths were laid on behalf of the town branch of the British Legion, the Poppy Appeal, Lydney Town Council, Lydney Air Cadets, Lydney Army Cadets and the Royal Naval Association, the Veterans’ Breakfast Club of Lydney and Chepstow.

The commemoration was attended by a large number of people including veterans of the Falklands and other conflicts.

Chair of the British Legion branch, Lynn Daszko, read The Exhortation and Robert Morgan of Lydbrook Band played Last Post.

The service and the dedication at Bathurst Park were led by Rev David Gardiner,the Vicar of Lydney.

Welcoming the three Falklands veterans and family members of those who served, Mrs Daszko said: “We know this is a special day for you.”

After the tree was planted, president of the British Legion branch, Mike Houghton, said: “This tree is a living memorial to those who gave their lives in the Falklands conflict.”

Branch committee member Michael Foreman read the poem The Falklands, by Terry Charles.