War heroes and young cadets stood side by side during a church service to remember the 60th anniversary of The Battle of Britain.

Some of the veterans, now in their eighties and nineties, shed quiet tears as they remembered friends lost in the historic air battles over Sussex in 1940.

The service at St Martin's Church in Lewes Road, Brighton, mixed military pomp with quiet reflection and was a fitting tribute to those who died.

William Murdoch, 85, from Brighton, said: "We all lost friends in the war. If you survived you were one of the lucky ones. In those days, men wanted to protect their country. They were willing to die for it. They should always be remembered."

It is 60 years since Hitler's major air offensive to bring Britain to its knees was foiled thanks largely to the bravery, skill and spirit of the RAF.

The Rev Brian Tyler, chaplain of the Brighton and Hove branch of the RAFA and vicar at St Richard's Church, Hollingdean, led the service to commemorate those dark days.

He asked the congregation to give thanks for the deliverance of the nation, to remember those who were sacrificed, and pray for guidance and protection for the men and women who serve in the RAF now.

Flt Lt Peter Norton, who runs 226 Squadron, Brighton, admitted it was difficult for young people to understand what men went through in 1940 but said it was vital that they tried. He said: "It is important the Battle of Britain is not forgotten and so we attend the service every year. The Venture Scouts are here to represent all young people at this occasion."

Prayers and hymns were followed by a moving silence as the Last Post was played.

It was followed by an upbeat rendition of The National Anthem and a reception for everyone who attended.

Dignitaries including Brighton MPs Des Turner and David Lepper, Hove MP Ivor Caplin, and Andy Durr, the Mayor of Brighton and Hove.

Mr Caplin said: "It is always humbling to remember those airmen who gave their lives defending our skies during the war. On this 60th anniversary, as on many others, we can be proud of RAFA for continuing to honour their memory."

In London, the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Edinburgh joined war heroes at a service to commemorate the anniversary.

The Westminster Abbey service, followed by a Spitfire fly-past, was led by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr Wesley Carr.

Veterans were awarded pride of place at the service.

An RAF guard of honour stood to attention as the men, some now in wheelchairs and others walking with the aid of sticks, filed into the church.

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Peter Squire said: "In this 60th anniversary year, the Battle of Britain remains one of the greatest achievements of the Royal Air Force.

"The courage, dedication and self sacrifice displayed by The Few in their victory over the Luftwaffe, together with the unfailing support provided by their ground personnel, continues to inspire the Royal Air Force today."