WAR heroes were honoured and remembered in a series of poignant ceremonies held across north Essex.

Battle of Britain Day, which was held on Wednesday, marked 81 years since RAF Fighter Command claimed a decisive victory over the German Luftwaffe.

In Clacton, the momentous wartime moment was commemorated in two services organised by the Clacton branch of the Royal Air Forces Association.

They saw Tendring Council chairman Jeff Bray attend the Clacton War Memorial and a later event held at St Paul’s Church, in the town centre.

The authority’s Armed Forces Champion, councillor Chris Amos, also attended the two services to pay tribute and show his support.

Referencing the words of Sir Winston Churchill, the Prime Minister during the Second World War, Mr Bray remembered the pilots and crews who fought the Nazis.

“Although such occasions are always sombre, it is absolutely vital that we remember that group of young men described as ‘the few’,” he said.

“We should never forget without the sacrifice made by these brave people, it is unlikely we would enjoy now the freedoms we take for granted.

“It was also wonderful to speak to those who attended; including some who, now aged in their 90s, had memories of the battle overhead.”

Gazette:

In Colchester a short remembrance was also held at the Colchester War Memorial by members of Colchester’s Royal Air Forces Association.

Former members of the Royal Observer Corps, who worked closely with the RAF during those critical times in the Second World War also attended the event.

Judy Alden, chairwoman of Colchester’s Royal Air forces Association said: “All those who gave their lives and service will never be forgotten.”