Veterans attend Battle of Jutland service held in Gosport

People gathered at the Daedalus Naval Air memorial at Lee-on-the-Solent to pay their respects.

The service was organised by veteran John Hardman, from Fareham.

It was attended by members of the Royal British Legion Riders, all of whom served in the Royal Navy.

During yesterday’s service, Barney Barnes read out details of the Battle of Jutland where 8,500 men died.

Tuesday marked 100 years since the First World War battle and ceremonies have been held throughout Portsmouth and the surrounding areas.

John was due to complete a triathlon challenge inspired by the date of the Battle of Jutland to raise money for the Royal British Legion.

But an injury meant he could not complete it.

Instead, he organised the service so he could still remember the fallen and pay his respects.

John said: ‘The service in Lee-on-the-Solent was only something small that I organised.

‘I know a few veterans and invited them along so we could pay our respects.

‘I was meant to complete the triathlon on Tuesday which is why the service was held yesterday.’

‘It is nice that we were able to gather at the Daedalus war memorial and spend time remembering all those that lost their lives.’

He added: ‘I thought the service was nice and I was happy with the number of people who turned up.

‘It is important that we remember everyone who died as it helps us look to the future.’

A two-minute silence was held during the short ceremony and John rang a bell six times. A hymn was also sang and Peter Clarke led the service of remembrance.

Three poppy wreaths were then laid at the memorial which is along the seafront.

Barney Barnes said: ‘It was a nice service although it would have been better if more people had shown up.

‘Still, I think it is important that we remember the people who died.

‘And that is not just the people who died in Jutland but people who have died in every conflict since.

‘Being a member of the Royal British Legion Bikes, the phrase Lest We Forget is more a code to us.

‘It is important we remember everyone and the service definitely helped us do that.’

The service finished with veteran Barry Eades reading: ‘When you go home tell them of us and say: For your tomorrow, we gave our today.’