THE PEOPLE of Blackwood remembered the war dead yesterday at a service held in the town.

The service was held at 11am next to the Market Square in the shopping centre in the town where people could join the dignitaries paying their respects.

Canon Lionel Marshal from St Margaret's Church led the service with Reverend Dr Gareth Edwards from Blackwood Methodist Church also taking part.

The service began with the hymn 'O god our help in ages past' and ended with 'Eternal father'. Bugler Blackwood Town Cllr Delwyn Davies played the last stand.

Standard bearers Ted Rowe from the Blackwood Branch of the Royal British Legion and Tony Mead representing the Merchant Navy held their respective standards in remembrance.

Libanus Primary School pupils from year five were also at the service.

Libanus teacher John McMorrow said: "We attend the service each year for the children to learn about remembrance. We will also be holding our own service in the school when the Blackwood Branch of the British Legion will be attending."

MP for Islwyn, Chris Evans was at the service and said: "It's important that remember the war dead, the current armed forces and their families at this time."

Blackwood Town Mayor Zoe Hammond along with deputy mayor Granville Hale along with Lord Lieutenant Simon Boyle and the Mayor of Caerphilly Borough Council, Gaynor Oliver.

The service was organised by Bill Baber from the Blackwood Branch of the Royal British Legion.