Hereford's MP Paul Keetch is one of a group of senior MPs from the three main parties marking the 20th anniversary of the Liberation of the Falklands Islands.

In an Early Day Motion yesterday, Mr Keetch honoured the memory of the 255 British servicemen killed in the conflict.

"I was deeply moved to have been asked by the Falkland Island Government to put my name to this motion", says Mr Keetch.

"I remember the Falklands War very well, not least because of the impact it had on Herefordshire.

"Our local regiment, the SAS, had its largest-ever single loss of life when a Sea King helicopter tragically crashed during a ship-to-ship transfer.

"The City of Hereford also lost its adopted ship, HMS Antelope.

"I have been fortunate to visit the Islands since and know many islanders - they are strong and lively people.

"I am delighted with the economic progress they have made since 1982 and firmly believe that they will remain part of the international British society."