Remembrance Day tributes

A Remembrance Day service took place at the Old Christian Cemetery, Manama, to mark the anniversary of the end of the First World War.

It was attended by ambassadors, diplomats, military officials and other guests from around the world - including three British military veterans whose visit to Bahrain coincided with the occasion.

The event featured a wreath laying ceremony and was led by St Christopher's Cathedral dean The Very Reverend Alan Hayday and Sacred Heart Church parish priest Father Thomas Quadros.

The Royal Navy also held services at sea on ships conducting Maritime Security Operations across the region.

Plymouth-based warship HMS Argyll held a service on the flight-deck as she patrolled the Oil Platforms off the coast of Iraq, whilst HMS Sutherland, newly arrived from her homeport of Devonport put a wreath to sea as she passed through the Gulf of Aden.

The First World War ended on November 11, 1918 at 11am and the anniversary is known as Armistice Day.

Three British military veterans arrived in Bahrain last week for a six-day visit, as part of the Remembrance Day tributes.

Chelsea Pensioners Chris Melia, Fred Brunger and Denis Shiels were given a traditional welcome by Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) officials, who have organised the annual visit. They visited St Christopher's Senior School, Bahrain International Circuit and British School of Bahrain. They also watched a cricket match at the American Express Bahrain Football Rugby Club, Saar, tucked into fish and chips at the British Club and enjoyed a Broadway musical at the Gulf Hotel. The men attended a Remembrance Day service at the St Christopher's Cathedral, Manama, and laid wreaths in respect to those killed in war.

All three live in the Royal Chelsea Hospital retirement home in London for British soldiers.