The Field of Remembrance opened in Cardiff today to commemorate the lost lives of war, ahead of remembrance day and remembrance Sunday next week.

Many of the public witnessed the service, bearing the rain and cold to pay respects to those who died in wars past and present. The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, and the Welsh Secretary, David TC Davies both present at the service, with the First Minister performing the poem ‘The Exhortation’ in Welsh.

The Royal Welsh Fusiliers made an appearance, alongside their mascot-goat Shenkin IV, with renditions of ‘The Last Post’,  British and Welsh national anthems closing out the service.

Honorary Chaplain of Cardiff Council, Reverend Canon Stewart Lisk, believes the importance of remembrance is to thank those who sacrificed their lives to better ours.

He said: “We’re giving thanks to those who have given their lives, but also giving us the hope and freedom that we enjoy today”.