YOUNG and old from Abergavenny and Usk areas remembered those who fought and died for their country in ceremonies on Remembrance Day and in parades and church services on Sunday.

On Friday staff and pupils from King Henry VIII Comprehensive School, Abergavenny, held a service of remembrance attended by governors and members of the Old Boys' Association, led by their president Bryn Seabourne.

A moving address was given by the vicar of Abergavenny the Rev Jeremy Winston who spoke of the loss so many people felt when their loved ones died, including his beloved grandmother who lost brothers and her fianc.

The school's windband played Chapman's Elegy, the hymn Make Me a Channel of Your Peace was sung and Olivia Hassall played The Last Post. Readings were by head boy and girl John Roberts and Katie Costin, and their deputies Daniel Iles and Lewis Robins-Grace.

Head teacher Gareth Barker and Mr Seabourne laid wreaths on the two memorials to former pupils who died in the first world war. Mr Barker said: "It is 60 years since the end of the Second World War and it is essential we remember those who have fought and continue to fight for their country."

The same morning wreaths were laid on the new memorial in St Mary's Priory Church - the first one in the town listing the names of those who gave their lives in the Second World War.

The mayor, Cllr Raymond Hill, was joined by John Stockham, chairman of the Royal British Legion branch and poppy organiser, and Clive Howells, president of the Rotary Club. The vicar, the Rev Jeremy Winston, read the prayer and the party included David Yendoll who was instrumental in organising the project and researching all the names for the memorial, with help from Iris Coldry.

At Govilon the newly-restored memorial gates at the King George recreation ground were re-dedicated by the vicar, the Rev Alex Pye, and the Rev Peter Baines, minister of Llanwenarth Baptist Church.

The ceremony was organised by Ivan Beatty who was responsible for getting the grants for restoring the gates to their former glory. It was also attended by pupils from the village primary school and Monmouth MP David Davies.

He was also present at the annual parade in Abergavenny on Sunday which was led by the mayor, Cllr Raymond Hill, and town councillors. The mayor laid a wreath on behalf of the townspeople with Cllr Alan Breeze, vice-chairman of Monmouthshire County Council.

The music was provided by Abergavenny Borough Band, conducted by Eric Powell, and dozens of local organisations were represented, including ATC, ACF, scouts, cubs, guides, brownies, Chamber of Trade, Rotary, Round Table and ex-servicemen and women's groups.

The service was conducted by the RBL padre, the Rev Derek Lee.