HUNDREDS of people across Wyre Forest joined together on Sunday and paid their respects to those who lost their lives in conflict.

War veterans stood alongside youngsters in a series of events throughout the towns and villages in the district to mark Remembrance Day.

Kidderminster's mayor, Peter Dyke, was joined by civic dignitaries, ex-serviceman and residents on a procession that wound its way through the streets of the town before a period of silence and a wreath laying service at the War Memorial outside St Mary's and All Saints Church.

The crowds then made their way into the church, where peace candles were lit in memory of the fallen service personnel.

Larry Billingsley, Kidderminster's Royal British Legion branch president, echoed the words of all event organisers, who reported high turn-outs.

He said: "It was a very nice occasion and it was especially good to see a lot of children taking part.

"The number of people who joined in the parade and service was also very pleasing. It was one of the best attended for a number of years."

People also stood on the streets of Stourport and Bewdley to witness parades and reflected while buglers played the sombre sounds of Last Post and Reveille.

On Saturday, more than 20 classic motorcycles were displayed at New Road car park, Bewdley, in an event organised by the town's motorcycle club and RAF Association to raise money for the Poppy Appeal.

The villages of Cookley, Wolverley and Wribbenhall honoured the dead with parades and services of their own.

Kidderminster marked Armistice Day, which is remembered each year at the exact time when the First World War ended, on Friday by holding a two-minute silence.

A short service was also held at the War Memorial.

Bugler serves for 39th year

BUGLER, Jon Jackson, sounded Last Post and Reveille at Hartlebury's Remembrance Day service for the 39th successive year.

He admitted after the ceremony at St James's Church: "I still get nervous and it's on my mind for two or three weeks beforehand.

Mr Jackson, a 50-year-old professional musician from Cleobury Mortimer, was drafted into the job as a schoolboy by his father, George Jackson, who conducted the Stourport Youth Band. He also used to perform at All Saints Church in Wilden during the evening service at teh request of the late councillor Reg Abbotts, who lived in the village.

after traiing at Bromsgrove, Mr Jackson played at the Albert Hall, Sydney Operat House and many other major venues. He had a minor stroke in May, which has caused him difficulties.

he said; "IO have been threatening to retire for the past 10 years but I expectI shall carry on, if my health permits."

After the service, he was presented with a framed scroll commemorating his service for the Royal British Legion.