International soldiers remembered

The Memorial Gates commemorate volunteers from around the world

A remembrance ceremony has been held in London for the five million people from overseas who served with Britain in both world wars.

Veterans and officials from Africa, the Caribbean and the Indian sub-continent gathered for a wreath-laying service at the Memorial Gates, in London.

The ceremony was led by Baroness Shreela Flather, who called for more recognition for non-Britons who fought.

The gates were created to mark the contribution of foreign servicemen.

They commemorate volunteers from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Africa and the Caribbean to mark their contribution in both world wars.

It was the fourth annual wreath-laying service at the gates. They were inaugurated by the Queen in 2002.

Baroness Flather, who is patron of the Memorial Gates, said there should be more recognition for those who died from their countries of origin.

Wreath laying

She said: "This has not been recognised in the countries which it actually focuses on. In India and Pakistan, for a start, nobody is aware how much their men did in the last war.

"It's their memorial - it's our memorial. I think we need to take pride in these people, these people have to be remembered.

"Along with the British, who are beginning to remember us, I hope it will begin to filter through to the countries of origin."

Lord Bilimoria, chairman of the Memorial Gates committee, read a poem and wreaths of poppies were laid by the High Commissioners of India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Nepal and Jamaica and the Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan.

And a wreath was laid on behalf of the Brigade of Gurkhas and the Prince of Wales by Field Marshal Sir John Chapple.

The ceremony was also attended by Ranford Smith, Deputy Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Armed Forces Minister Adam Ingram, the Lord Mayor of Westminster, Councillor Alexander Nicoll, veterans and cadets.