Military veterans and their loved ones gathered at the reopening of Lydiard Park’s Field of Remembrance.

Thousands of crosses and commemorative markers are planted in the park to honour those who died while serving in the armed forces.

Visitors can plant tributes in the form of a Remembrance Cross, Muslim Crescent, Star of David, Sikh Khanda, Hindu Om, or Secular Tribute at the grounds until November 19.

The Royal British Legion hosted the annual opening service on Wednesday, joined by chaplains, dignitaries, choir members, military personnel, as well as students from Tregoze Primary School and Royal Wootton Bassett Academy.

Downpours paused before the sounding of the Last Post, and birdsong could be heard during the two-minute silence.

Guests heard readings of poetry and Bible verse, sang the national anthem, and watched as tributes were planted by local mayors and representatives of the Navy, Army and RAF.

Gary Martin wore his Royal Welsh Fusiliers uniform to attend the service. The 62-year-old from Wroughton spent time in Northern Ireland and Germany during the Cold War.

He said: “The service was very well done. This brings memories to the forefront and takes you back, remembering people who were gone far too soon. We have a common thread that binds us.

“My father was in the Navy during the Second World War and my grandfather was in Gallipoli during the First World War.

“Their history, and mine, is on the walls at home so my grandchildren can learn about them.”

Representatives from the Calne and wider Wiltshire branches of the Royal British Legion were also among the attendees.

Janet Alexander said: “It’s very moving. I'm from a military background so it means a lot to take part in as many Remembrance services as possible."

John Elliott’s 44-year stint in the armed forces began when he was 15.

He said: “A lot of people have fallen in campaigns and war, so it’s important to remember them.

“It is also nice to meet up with fellow comrades at these services – I’ve reunited here with a friend I last saw in 1994.”

RBL’s director of remembrance, Phillippa Rawson, said: “With each tribute planted, someone is remembering a loved one, a family member, a friend or comrade, as well as simply acknowledging the ultimate sacrifice made by those who have served across our armed forces.

“The RBL plant every tribute we receive. Members of the public can visit to see their tribute and to reflect and remember those who fell to serve our country.”