WINCHESTER fell silent yesterday as hundreds gathered at the cathedral to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

This year remembrance Sunday fell on the actual date of the armistice which signalled the end of the First World War – November 11.

Remembrance Sunday was marked by servicemen and women, past and present, joined by the public to honour those who fell not only in the Two World wars, but also more recent conflicts such as the Falkland Islands and the war in Afghanistan.

Rear Admiral Iain Henderson shared his thoughts during the sermon. He said: “The numbers lost may be small by comparison but the sight of a coffin coming back from Afghanistan is a solemn reminder of lives shattered.”

Led by the Dean of Winchester Cathedral, James Atwell, the service began at 10am and the cathedral was completely full, with uniforms of every description, from the Parachute Regiment to the fire brigade, and from boy scouts to the ambulance service.

Winchester Cathedral choir began proceedings by singing Laurence Binyon’s They Shall Grow Not Old, with the event culminating with an act of remembrance at the war memorial on the green. Wreathes were laid, with Captain Christopher Fagan representing The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Dame Mary Fagan.

It was an exceptionally clear and bright morning, with the many medals and ceremonial swords on display glimmering brightly in the sun as the Last Post was sounded.

Members of the public and service personnel alike agreed that it was a fitting tribute. James Clinker, 67, who is a former soldier and presently works at Worthy Down, said: “The sermon was absolutely brilliant. I thought the whole service was outstanding. Yes, it was very moving.”