TEARS of sadness and respect were wept in Swindon as nearly 2,000 people packed the streets to remember those who died in the two world wars.

More than 150 veterans proudly marched to Swindon's Cenotaph for the annual Remembrance Day service, as a mark of respect to their fellow comrades who were lost in battle.

Among the people paying their respects were grieving wives, parents and children, remembering the sacrifices their beloved relatives made.

Town dignitaries, including mayor David Cox and MPs Julia Drown and Michael Wills, joined hundreds of war veterans and present day members of the armed forces, to lay wreaths of poppies at the Cenotaph.

Crowds joined in with traditional hymns and the national anthem after standing in sombre silence for two minutes at 11am.

Sermons and speeches were made by Swindon's religious leaders including Anglican Bishop of Swindon, the Right Reverend Michael Doe, and Roman Catholic Monsignor Richard Twomey.

Hundreds of young people representing the Air Corps, Army and Sea Cadets also joined in the march both to and from the Town Hall.

Don Dedman, vice president of the Swindon Royal British Legion branch said yesterday's event was one of the best parades for years.

"There were more than 1,500 people there, it was amazing.

"It just gets bigger every year, we thought it would be bigger this year because of what has happened in America.

"The service is still important to make people remember as it means so much to the veterans who come here every year."

Veteran Gordon Ponting, 77, of Liden, who served with the Sherwood Forresters 1st Division during World War Two said many of his friends were lost during the battles.

"We are remembering all the people who are not here with us now many of whom were friends.

"It still brings a lump to your throat and you remember memories both good and bad.

"There was a great feeling of comradeship like if one soldier had a cigarette you all had one, you do miss that about the Army. It was a grand life.

"We were well trained before we went out but I was only 19. Once you heard the rumble of the guns you knew you were in a war."

Bert Rivers, 80, who has been attending the service for more than 40 years said he remembered his time with the RAF well.

He said: "I was on active service in the Indian Ocean during the Second World War.

"There are only one or two people left in Swindon now who served in the first war but we all know what it was like to serve in a war. I had lots of friends killed good friends.''

Patricia Tomkins, 61, of Freshbrook, said the service helped her remember her son Paul who died 14 years ago while serving with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

She said: "My son served in peace time and died in an accident at work but this service helps me remember him.

"It is important to pay tribute to all the soldiers, airmen and sailors who have helped keep the country safe over the years."