EX-SERVICEMEN and women gathered yesterday to pay tribute to colleagues who lost their lives while serving their country during the Second World War.

The Landing Ship Tanks and Landing Craft Association met in the memorial garden at Albert Park, Middlesbrough, for a special service. National treasurer Jim Brend - a retired Royal Navy lieutenant commander placed a wreath on a plaque, which was laid down by the group when the garden was officially opened last year. He travelled to Teesside from Devon for the occasion. Teesside branch representative George Saunders said: "It was a first-class service. We had the Last Post, which is always very moving, and we also had a minute's silence. The landing craft were the first on to the beaches during the war and we had lots and lots fall by the wayside. A service like this makes sure we keep the memories alive."