A PARADE to honour nuclear test veterans took place for the final time in Risca on Sunday.

The march by members of the Welsh branch of the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association has been staged in Risca since 1993.

But dwindling numbers of veterans meant this year would be the last parade.

Islwyn MP Chris Evans joined people from Risca and across the UK for the parade to remember the thousands of servicemen who were involved in the weapons testing programme in the 1950s and 1960s.

Many suffered serious health problems as a result of the programme.

Mr Evans said: “It was an honour to join the parade. We owe a debt of gratitude to our veterans and this ceremony honours the men who have subsequently died because of their involvement in nuclear testing.

"I feel very strongly that these veterans deserve justice and I have tabled several parliamentary questions on this issue - it is important that we never forget their cause."