Church packed as crowd gathers to honour Battle of Britain heroes (From Watford Observer)

St Paul's Church at Langleybury packed as crowd gathers to honour Battle of Britain heroes

4:40pm Monday 17th September 2012 in News By Amie Mulderrig, Features Writer

Crowds of people filled St Paul's Church at Langleybury on Sunday (September 16) to honour servicemen and women who fought in the Battle of Britain.

Those present at the Hunton Bridge church included chairman of Abbots Langley Parish Council Councillor Keith Williams, members of the Royal British Legion, cadets from the Air Training Core, standard bearers, and former and current service personnel.

They were also joined by Watford MP Richard Harrington, Hemel Hempstead MP Mike Penning, Three Rivers District Council chairman Councillor Kemal Butt, the Royal Air Force Association and Mayor of Hertsmere, Councillor Pat Strack.

Cadets from ATC marched from The Kings Head in Bridge Road, Hunton Bridge with wreaths, prior to the packed service at Langleybury Church.

Following the memorial service, wreaths were laid by attendees at the war memorial in front of the church.

Ivy Young, secretary for the Abbots Langley branch of the Royal British Legion, and Poppy Appeal organiser, said she thought this year had the greatest turnout.

She said: "It’s impossible to say exactly how many people were there, it was so busy.

"Needless to say, there was standing room only in the church, it was packed. It was such a pleasure to see so many of the youngsters taking part in the memorial service.

"It’s warming to think they are keeping the memory of those that have died alive."