Veterans remember Falklands war

Veterans gather for the Falklands parade in Edinburgh

War veterans in Scotland have marked the 25th anniversary of the end of the Falklands conflict.

Wreaths were laid at the Scottish National War Memorial in Edinburgh before 400 veterans marched down the city's Royal Mile.

Two RAF Tornados staged a fly-past before a special service took place at St Giles Cathedral.

HMS Exeter, which was involved in the conflict, is also docked near the Scottish capital for the occasion.

More than 1,000 lives, including those of more than 250 British soldiers, were lost in the war.

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Arbroath-based 45 Commando and the 2nd Battalion of the Scots Guards were heavily involved in the war, losing 15 service personnel.

Heather Nicholson of the Royal British Legion Scotland, which organised the events, said: "We want to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of the members of the Armed Forces who liberated the Falklands and restored the rule of law wished by the islands' residents.

"It must never be forgotten that 255 British died, 755 were wounded and that many more suffered mental wounds.

"It may have been a war of only 74 days but the consequences live with us still, particularly for the families."

'Proper tribute'

Neil Griffiths, also of the Royal British Legion Scotland, said it was the first time such a large number of Falklands veterans had gathered together in Scotland.

He said: "We're delighted that the turnout was far higher than we expected and that proper tribute could be made.

"I was surprised how many people with the South Atlantic Medal were present.

"It's almost as if, after 25 years, they have come to terms with the campaign."