HUNDREDS of people paid their respects at the war memorial in Newcastle town centre yesterday, pictured.

Earlier, pipes and drums of the Black Watch Association led a parade from Corporation Street to a service at St Giles's Church.

Among those paying their respects was Reg Bowers, who served in the 4th Royal Tanks regiment.

The 77-year-old, of Lower High Street, Mow Cop, said: "I served in the Suez zone. I did all sorts of jobs such as a tank gunner and in administration."

Derrick Jones, who was in the Royal Military Police from 1952 to 1954, also served in the Suez zone.

The 77-year-old, of Roe Lane, Newcastle, said: "I have come to remember colleagues I lost there."

Brian Maxwell Hignett, of Lancaster Road, Newcastle, was in the Royal Artillery from 1952 to 1954.

The 74-year-old said: "There has been a really good turnout."

Dawn Brayford, of Basford Park Road, Basford, brought her seven-year-old niece, Poppy Nikon, along to support her 14-year-old brother, Lloyd, who was in the parade.

The 40-year-old said: "It's good to see so many people here."

Hannah Morris, aged 19, of Northwood, who is a member of the Newcastle RAF squadron, said: "I have always been interested in the RAF. I want to become an officer."

Kimberley Walker, aged 18, of Trentham, who was with the Cross Heath Army Cadet Force, said: "I am supporting the troops who have died as well as many of the ex-cadets."