GAZETTE & HERALD: MOURNERS packed a huge maintenance hangar at RAF Lyneham on Friday to remember the ten who lost their lives in the Hercules crash.

Service personnel, colleagues and families of those who died joined together for the Service of Remembrance, which was led by the station's senior chaplain, Wing Cdr David Edgar.

Former serviceman Andy Humm, who lost two friends in the crash, described the atmosphere as "sombre and numbing".

"So many of us had a brief sniff or wiped a solemn tear," he said. "It was very moving."

Station Commander Paul Oborn welcomed the congregation and thanked them for coming together to pray for the gallant crew.

The service also included a two minute silence at 11am to remember the crew who had paid the ultimate price.

Opening the service, Wing Cdr Edgar said: "We meet together in the presence of Almighty God to remember those known to many here who served with loyalty, courage, professionalism and devotion even at the cost of their lives in the cause of freedom, justice and peace."

He prayed for comfort for the families, friends and colleagues touched by the sudden loss, and to honour the memory of those who died.

A fitting poem written by Sheila Webb was read. It included the lines: "Strong and mighty men of peace, Your legacy will never cease; Pride and sadness interlace, 47 Squadron Lyneham base."

The names of the men who died were read out, followed by the Ode to the Fallen.

The pews were packed in the village church of St. Michael and All Saints and candles burnt brightly. The choir sang Like a Candle Flame and as the last lines rang out the names of all ten servicemen were read out. Some of the congregation then signed a condolence book and lit candles.

The Rev Tony Fletcher said: "There were some solemn memories when we remembered those who died and there were some prayerful moments. There was a great mixture of community from the elderly to the very young, Royal Air Force and non Royal Air Force."

He said everyone in the village would continue to support each other.

"Our hearts go out to all those who have been affected, particularly the families," he said.