A WREATH was laid in The Solent following a special D-Day 80 commemorative service at Brading Haven Yacht Club on the Isle of Wight.

A Service of Remembrance was conducted by the Rev Deacon Gary May, following a welcome by Robin Lobb, the club's commodore, on Thursday last week (June 6). 

Representatives of limbless veterans charity Blesma, of which Seaview man Roy Hayward, aged 99, is a leading member, together with representatives of of Bembridge RNLI, attended.

The lowering of the Normandy flag, to the solemn sound of the Last Post, played by retired Welsh Guards WO2, Mitch Jones, was followed by the national observation of two minutes' silence, then Reveille.

Retired Royal Marines officer, Lt Col Mike Samuelson, of Bembridge, reflected on the sacrifices made in Normandy 80 years ago, with his rendition of The Fallen.

The Act of Remembrance was recited by retired Royal Navy officer, Capt Jeff Cowan.

Retired Royal Navy officer, CPO (FAA) Keith Partington, also reflected on the occasion, reciting D-Day Remembered.

John Brodie also accompanied the hymn Abide With Me during the service and performed Flowers of the Forest.

A wreath was then laid on the water off St Helen’s Fort.