THANKSGIVING for the courage and sacrifice of soldiers, sailors and airmen who went on from the D-Day beaches to liberate Europe resounded throughout Newport's cathedral.

But it was those who never lived through the storm of enemy fire, or who were taken by the sea during the course of the greatest amphibious operation the world has ever seen, who were especially remembered.

Civic and military dignitaries including the High Sheriff and the Lord Lieutenant of Monmouth-shire, Newport's mayor Councillor Ray Truman, Mr Paul Flynn, MP for Newport West, Newport Assembly Members Rosemary Butler and William Graham and officers and senior non-commissioned officers of 104 Regiment, Royal Artillery and the Royal Monmouth-shire Royal Engineers, all of whom came to pay their respects at a service of remembrance at St Woolos Cathedral to mark the 60th anniversary of the D-Day landings.

But it was the handful of veterans who were at the service's emotional centre, men like Ron Davey of Ringland, who served on motor torpedo boats during the invasion and his friend John Welch, both members of the Newport branch of the Royal Naval Association.

Mr Davey and Mr Welch, both 80, were on ships providing a screen against German E-boats and submarines as the enormous Anglo-American force went ashore. "It was a moving service. I was proud to be there," Mr Davey said.

Mr Welch said: "It was a long time ago, but I am pleased those who died are not forgotten."

In his address the Ven John Blackburn, chaplain-general to HM Land Forces, said "Because those men trained, fought hard and died hard we can sit here today and enjoy our liberty. "D-Day was no mere exercise or Metro-Goldwyn Mayer production, but something in which men made the ultimate sacrifice."

The Rev. Geoffrey Howell, said "Let us offer our thanksgiving to Almighty God for the victory achieved and for the liberation of so many from cruelty and oppression as a result of the D-Day landings 60 years ago.

l A service was held in Newbridge attended by 100 people including Don Touhig, MP for Islwyn. It was conducted by the Rev Margaret Jessop, vicar of St Paul's Church, Newbridge assiated by the Rev Flavio Azambuja, minister of Tabernacle Baptist Church.