Wreathes have been laid at the foot of the Croydon War Memorial as the town gathered to honour Armistice Day.

Representatives from all three strands of the armed service, the fire brigade, police and Croydon British Legion gathered outside the town hall on Katharine Street at 11am to remember those who died in World War One and following conflicts.

Veterans of conflict dating from Korea in the 50s to Northern Ireland in the 90’s explained why celebrating Armistice Day, 93 years after the declaration of the end of World War One.

Michael Johnson, 39, served with the Royal Green Jackets in Northern Ireland between 1989 and 1992.

He said: “With a lot of people it is something that is in the family. My grandfather fought at the Somme so it is a very important moment for me. Serving you are doing a duty to your family, the country, to everyone and I think that is appreciated.”

Wally Filby, 71, served in the Royal Navy in the 50s and 60s.

He said: “You can see it is still important, especially with what is going on out in Afghanistan.”

Donald Bell, 80, who served with the Fleet Air Squadron added: “You see the bodies coming back at the moment that has seen a strong swell of support for the armed service. It is relevant now as it was then.”

Mayor of Croydon Coun Graham Bass laid the first wreath followed by representatives of the armed forces, Metropolitan Police and the Royal British Legion.

A Remembrance Day Service will be held at The Fairfield Halls at 10.45am on Sunday November 13 before a parade will progress to the war memorial on Katharine Street for 11am