A MEMORIAL service commemorating the anniversary of the start of the First World War has been heralded as one of the most ‘special’ attended.

Vale MP Alun Cairns praised the Barry branch of Royal British Legion and other related supporters for their candle light tribute at the Cenotaph outside the Memorial Hall, in Barry, on Monday, August 4..

The service began as darkness fell, with most people using candles for light as a symbolic act of remembrance.

More than 100 residents attended.

Alun Cairns said: “This was a unique service which allowed us to remember all those who had fought and fallen for our freedom. As darkness fell, we were left in candlelight ultimately, with only a single candle burning.

“It was so moving to see many of the local communities; scouts and guides, clubs and societies and many other organisations paying their respects in different ways to the 273 local

men who died during at conflict. Special services such as this allow us to always remember

and never forget the sacrifices given for our liberty.”