VETERANS from the Durham Light Infantry gathered in Durham Cathedral's DLI Chapel for their annual reunion service.

The ceremony commemorated the service and sacrifice of the 37 battalions of the historic regiment.

During the service, the regimental roll of honour was read and hymns and prayers were offered by The Reverend Kenneth Crawford.

He said: “With the Lord-Lieutenant of the County, Sue Snowdon, and various members of The Rifles and other regiments in attendance, it was a wonderful occasion in the association’s life.

"As Chaplain to the Association, it was my privilege to preach at the annual service. This year I spoke on the regimental hymn, Abide with Me, and how the words form great encouragement and hope in amongst the trials and tribulations of this world.

"The DLI Association is one of the most active and lively military associations in the UK, with members supporting many activities throughout the year.”

Despite disappearing about 50 years ago, the DLI remains one of the most popular regiments in the Army and retains a special place in County Durham folklore.

Field Marshal Montgomery of Alamein said of them: “There may be some regiments as good, but I know of none better.”

Eleven DLI soldiers were awarded the Victoria Cross and the regiment’s history is marked with stories of bravery and heroism.

During the Second World War, the DLI fought in every major theatre of war, including Dunkirk, North Africa, Sicily, Italy and Burma.

After 1945, the DLI served in Germany, Korea, Egypt, Aden, Cyprus and Hong Kong, before fighting its last campaign, in Borneo, in 1966.