VETERANS, dignitaries, schoolchildren and residents gathered at Rhyl's Remembrance Gardens today (November 11) to pay their respects to the British servicemen who died while serving their country.

Today is the 104th anniversary of Armistice Day, to mark the armistice signed between the Allies of World War I and Germany at Compiègne, France, marking the end of the First World War.

The armistice took effect at 11am: the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. 

The service, organised by the Rhyl branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), opened with words and prayers from Reverend Chris Spencer.

Pupils from Ysgol Llewelyn, one of nine schools in attendance, then said a few words.

This was followed by exhortation, a rendition of the bugle call "The Last Post", an two-minute silence at 11am, the reveille, and the laying of wreaths.

The town's deputy mayor, Cllr Jacquie McAlpine, laid a wreath on behalf of Rhyl Town Council, as did Gareth Davies, Vale of Clwyd MS, Cllr Justine Evans (Rhyl East ward), schools and veterans.

READ MORE:

Remembrance 2022: Services and events - Abergele, Rhuddlan, Rhyl, Prestatyn, St Asaph

Richard Kendrick, Poppy Appeal fundraiser in Rhyl for the RBL, helped co-ordinate today's service.

Rhyl Journal: Richard Kendrick, Royal British Legion fundraiser for the poppy appeal in Rhyl.Richard Kendrick, Royal British Legion fundraiser for the poppy appeal in Rhyl. (Image: Newsquest)

He said: "Today is special. We're all here, as one, remembering. It's just lovely.

"Everywhere you looked today, it was packed. There were so many people here.

"I knew some of the lads who never came back. I still talk to their wives, and always know I'm here if they ever need a chat.

"Our veterans are younger now, as well. We need to explain to schoolchildren why we wear a poppy with pride.

"Without them, there may be no RBL in 10 or 20 years' time. They're our future."

Pupils from Ysgol Tir Morfa said the service was "so respectful and peaceful" and "well-organised".

A teacher from the school added: "We were really glad to be invited to be part of this and get the chance to remember appropriately.

"It's important for us to remember what people go through in wars, even now, and to remember the people who gave their lives to save our country and our freedom."

Alvin Ward, a retired Army major, served in the forces from 1971 until 2014.

Rhyl Journal: Alvin WardAlvin Ward (Image: Newsquest)

He said that the "camaraderie" was his abiding memory of his years serving.

He added: "It's good to see young people here. The First World War is part of their history, so it can be difficult for them to relate to it."

Louise McCabe-Allen, who lives in Kinmel Bay and is a Second Lieutenant with the Army Cadet Force and former Detachment Commander, was also in attendance.

Rhyl Journal: Louise McCabe-AllenLouise McCabe-Allen (Image: Newsquest)

She said: "My father was an evacuee in World War II, and then did national service when he was old enough to.

"I have grandparents who fought in the wars, as well, but it's not just about the world wars.

"For me, it's about (remembering) everybody who has served the country and has lost their lives, (including) in wars since.

"I think it's really important that we take time to reflect on that.

"The way that the schools have turned out today has been absolutely fantastic. It's important to carry things like this on and teach young children about this."

Lee Harris, who grew up in Prestatyn, served 16 years in the forces as an engineer, spending time in Northern Ireland, Kosovo, and the Far and Middle East.

Rhyl Journal: Lee HarrisLee Harris (Image: Newsquest)

He said: "For me, it's about remembering my friends who aren't here anymore.

"I absolutely loved it (time serving). My son is joining as well in a couple of years' time. It was the best time of my life.

"Even during the worst times, to make a difference to people, liberate countries or manning refugee camps... I have absolutely fantastic memories of being in the Army.

"It's fantastic seeing the schools here, because that keeps the memory going, and that's what matters. It's up to us to make sure the next generations remember today, as well."

Ray Scott-Revie, originally from Massachusetts but now living in Abergele, "served all over the world".

He said: "It's an emotional day for me. Eight other family members preceded me into the services, and I'm the last surviving member.

"It gives me an opportunity to pay my respects to them, and to my buddies who I was in Vietnam with.

"My wife and I wear badges to honour the animals - people forget about the dogs and the horses who served with service personnel, and who were also lost."

Rhyl’s Remembrance Sunday service will be held on Sunday, November 13.

A service will be held at St Thomas' Church, Rhyl, at 9.30am and will conclude at 10.30am.

A parade will form on Russell Road and will proceed to the Remembrance Gardens for a short service.

The two-minute silence will be observed, followed by a wreath-laying service and refreshments.