Dozens of people turned out to remember fallen soldiers at a poignant Battle of Passchendaele service in Flackwell Heath at the weekend.

Around 80 people, including ex-service personnell, paid their respects at the service, which was held at the Flackwell Heath war memorial, outside the Royal British Legion, in Common Road, yesterday (Sunday) to mark 100 years of the start of the bloody battle, also known as the Third Battle of Ypres.

The branch’s treasurer, Carole Holmes, said it was an “amazing” afternoon, with the rain clearing away and the sun revealing itself right as the service was about to take place at 3pm.

Guests were invited to a reception at the RBL following the service, which was led by Rev Martin Courtney.

There were six standard bearers, including four from the RBL and two from the Royal Artillery.

Branch chairman George O’Leary said the service was “excellent”, adding: “[The day] was absolutely marvellous. We were blessed with the weather.”