VICTORY over Japan in World War Two was remembered by the Royal British Legion and the Burma Star Association in Minehead.

The VJ service at the Burma memorial in Blenheim Gardens on August 15 was conducted by the Rev John Thorogood and was well supported by members of the British Legion and friends.

Among those present were Minehead chairman Philip Collins, county chairman Major Bob MacDonald, who said the Exhortation, and standard bearers Desmond Wilson and Robert Cridland.

Dr Glyn Court, the last surviving active local veteran of the 14th (the so-called ‘Forgotten Army’) died last year, but was remembered by the words he had written for the service.

Captain Walter Godsal, who served in the Royal Navy, read the passage ‘Greater Love’ from St John’s Gospel and also said the Kohima Epitaph.

Other people taking part were Ross McKee, Bert Pearson, Armed Forces representative Cllr Andy Milne, Taunton and West Somerset Council deputy leader Cllr Benet Allen, Mayor of Minehead Cllr Sandra Slade and Cllr Hugh Davies.

The younger generation was represented by air cadets from Minehead and District Air Squadron ATC. Several wreaths were laid and the service concluded with the Last Post played by bugler Alan Radford, followed by a two-minute silence, Reveille and the national anthem.

Dr Court’s widow, Clare Court. gave a vote of thanks to all who attended and assisted. Next year will be the 75th anniversary when there will be a special commemoration of that event.