Trafford remembers the Falklands War 40 years on at service

The service at St Paul's Church in Sale, which was also attended by Mayor of Trafford Cllr Chris Boyes and other dignitaries, was followed by a parade to the town hall involving veterans of the conflict 40 years ago and other members of the Armed Forces.

A sizeable crowd of people looked on as the Reverend Rebecca Mathew led an act of remembrance, which involved the Last Post and a two-minute silence.

Mr Burnham lays a wreath.

Both Mayors in attendance then laid wreaths on the memorial.

Speaking to The Messenger on the steps of the town hall, Mr Burnham said: "It was wonderful to see people out in the centre of Sale to pay their respects.

"It was a powerful, poignant service and then an act of remembrance which was really moving, actually."

Cllr Boyes lays a wreath.

Asked about the importance of remembrance of the Falklands War, he added: "It's very important, particularly in Greater Manchester, where we've traditionally been the strongest recruiting ground for the Armed Forces. Of course, people from here were lost in the conflict, so we think of their families.

"I think it's important for their families we recognise the sacrifice that their loved ones have made, and also that they've made. It's right to do that on this 40th anniversary."

The Falklands War started on April 2 in 1982 when the Argentinians invaded the islands, and ended with the recapture of the territory's capital Stanley by the British on June 14 of the same year.

The Mayors with members of the Armed Forces and cadets.

A total of more than 900 people died, including 255 British servicemen and three civilians.

Cllr Boyes said: "As part of the council’s Armed Services Covenant, it’s important we honour the past so we can maintain our promise to support the Armed Forces community in Trafford.

"We must recognise and remember the sacrifices made by members of this Armed Forces community, particularly those who have given the most."

Wreaths on the memorial.