VETERANS who fought and lost their lives in the Far East were remembered on Saturday during the 70th anniversary of Victory in Japan (VJ) Day.

The parade and laying of the wreath at the war memorial in Guildhall Square was organised by the Salisbury and District branch of the Burma Star Association.

While the parade is the last one to be organised by the group due to the increasing age of its members, the local Royal British Legion branch said it would oversee a smaller version of the parade in future years.

On Saturday morning, the Reverend Canon David Linaker gave an address before the laying of the wreath by Burma Star Association chairman Brian Bennett, who read out the Kohima epitaph.

There was a two-minute silence followed by prayers, the Last Post and one verse of God Save the Queen.

Salisbury Mayor Andrew Roberts said it was essential to remember those who had fought for the victory of light over darkness in the most destructive war of all time.

The mayor gave awards to Major John Turner, Peter Maffey and Grace Prince for their work with the Poppy Appeal. After the parade, a service took place at the cathedral next to the Burma Star plaque.