HUNDREDS of residents gathered around war memorials to pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

About 700 people from across Harwich and Manningtree joined together in silence to honour the fallen on Sunday.

Members of the Royal British Legion gathered in Harwich Quay before marching to St Nicholas’ Church where the remembrance service took place.

The Harwich parade was led by the mayor John Brown, followed by the Royal British Legion along with the Royal Navy and Merchant Navy.

They were joined by youth groups and members of the Armed Forces.

Dale Cheesman, the Royal British Legion secretary, said: “It was an absolutely sensational day from start to finish with people really supporting it.

“I think we were all overwhelmed by the support we received.”

The Manningtree service, which was held at the war memorial in High Street, was taken by reverend Dominic Turner.

Kerry King, President of Manningtree Royal British Legion, said: "The feedback was that it was a lovely service and Mistley Parish Council chairman Martin Rayner read In Flanders' Field and Ruth Stocks, the mayor of Manningtree also did a reading.

"It's quite a community driven service and many people took part."