A sea of poppies fell in memory of the thousands of servicemen and women who lost their lives in wars across the globe during a moving service at St George's Hall, Bradford, last night.

The 60th Bradford Festival of Remembrance, attended by hundreds of people, also paid homage to members of the British armed forces who are now on active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor John Godward, told the audience: "There will be a wide range of feelings and emotions running through this hall this evening. Among them will be both sadness and pride.

"As we mark this significant occasion, we continue to remember those who put their lives on the front line for our freedom and liberty.

"And as we do not forget those who have fought in past conflicts, we will especially remember those who are engaged in present day operations, wherever they are in the world."

Coun Godward made a special welcome to two veterans from the Keighley branch of the Royal British Legion: Albert Joiner, 95, and Bill Todd, 92.

Decorated war veterans stood proudly alongside children and a service of music and song was held during the first half of the festival which was compered by television presenter Geoff Druett.

The Festival of Remembrance Symphonic Band heralded the start of the tribute followed by a moving performance from the Glen Singers, who are based at Idle Methodist Church. Seasoned Bradford singer Anne Tonks performed before youngsters at the DM Academy in Shipley took to the stage.

Veterans waved Union flags and joined in singing classic tunes of the First Second World Wars. But the audience was later united in its silence as the Reverend Canon Ralph Crowe and Father John Abberton led the Service of Remembrance and the haunting sound of The Last Post filled the air.

Closing the festival, Bradford Council leader Kris Hopkins, who formerly served with the Duke of Wellington's regiment, said: "As a former soldier and as Council leader, it's been a great honour to be with you today. It's extremely humbling to be in the presence of so many decorated individuals and I pay tribute to the contribution they have given.

"The role that you have played in shaping our democracy is important in a way that words cannot really express. It is so important that we continue that act of remembrance."

Bill Lee, a Royal Navy veteran, who compiles the Telegraph & Argus Ex-Service Notes and who was co-compere at the festival, said: "I was at Suez and on the way back we buried three people over the side into the sea. It's things like that you remember. It is important it doesn't happen again."

e-mail: fiona.evans@bradford.newsquest.co.uk