A SERVICE of remembrance was held in Poole at the weekend to mark the 40-year anniversary of sailor Stephen Ford’s death.

Stephen Ford, served as a Marine Engineering Mechanic during the Falklands conflict in 1982.

Stephen had been serving onboard HMS Ardent and was one of 22 soldiers to be killed when the ship came under attack on May 21, 1982.

On Saturday, the Poole Branch of the Royal British Legion held a wreath laying ceremony at Seaview Point to commemorate the 40th anniversary of his death.

The Mayor of Poole and Stephen's family were also in attendance.

The family and members of the public were welcomed to the memorial and a naval prayer was said.

During the service, wreaths were laid at Stephen’s memorial and words were said in remembrance.

Bournemouth Echo:

The branch secretary from the Royal British Legion, Tony Harvey read out a message from the Ardent Association: “It is amazing to think it is 40 years since the Falklands took place but time has not dulled the memories of those scarred by the loss of loved ones, injured or with PTSD. They remain a constant theme of their lives.

“What was achieved by the task force was incredible and made the world is a better and safer place as a result, HMS Ardent played an important part in this … three jets were shot down attacking Ardent, the boys fought well but war is a dreadful thing and 22 of our brave comrades including Stephen were killed we will always remember them.”