Cross-border service for war dead

The cross-border service has been held for the past nine years

Thousands of fallen soldiers have been honoured at a cross-border commemoration service in County Louth.

Ex-service groups from both sides of the border paid tribute to the war dead at the only all-Ireland remembrance event on the island.

The Irish Ex-Service Men's Association and Whiteabbey British Legion branch laid wreaths bearing the Royal Crest and Tricolour in Drogheda.

The joint memorial service has been held for the past nine years.

Drogheda Mayor Frank Maher and Newtownabbey Mayor Victor Robinson represented their respective areas.

Ceremony

The event also included an inter-denominational religious ceremony recalling the service and sacrifice of thousands who joined the British forces to fight in the First World War.

Brian McCalden, spokesman for Whiteabbey Royal British Legion, said it had grown in size and importance over the past decade.

"It started off as a handful of people, but has attracted up to 200 in recent years," said Mr McCalden, who was one of organisers.

"Last year the Irish Ex-Service Men's Association had 12 people at it, and we expect the same this year.

"They remember their soldiers who were killed in all conflicts."