FALKLANDS War veterans across the North-East are invited to a 20th anniversary memorial service for those who lost their lives in the South Atlantic conflict.

Any ex-servicemen are welcome to attend, particularly those who took part in the 1982 campaign to recapture the islands from the Argentinian army.

The service takes place at the Minster Church, in High Street West, Sunderland, on Saturday, July 6, starting at 2pm.

It is being organised by the Durham-based Normandy Veterans' Pilgrimage Club, in association with Sunderland Parachute Regiment Association, backed by the South Atlantic Medal Association.

Lilian Turnbull, secretary of the pilgrimage club, appealed to anyone considering attending to get in touch to ensure that numbers do not exceed the 690 capacity.

"We have been in touch with quite a few ex-services' associations, from Newcastle to York, and we would like to see representatives there for all those who were in the conflict," she said.

"A lot have not joined the South Atlantic Medal Association and so we want word to get round among all the veterans who are not members. There must be hundreds in the North-East."

The guest of honour will be the Mayor of Sunderland, councillor Ken Murray.

The memorial service will take place 20 years after the end of the 74-day conflict, which resulted in the death of more than 900 servicemen.

Anyone who is considering attending the event is asked to contact Gilbert Thompson, chairman of the Sunderland Parachute Regiment Association, on 0191-378 2674.