A WAR memorial service was today held in Haughton-le-Skerne to make the 75th anniversary of VJ - Victory over Japan - Day.

The service was held by Rev Mark East at the war memorial outside of St Andrew's Church in the village.

Mayor of Darlington Cllr Chris McEwan also spoke at the service.

Cllr McEwan said: "As Mayor of Darlington, I feel extremely honoured and privileged to be here with you on this significant day in history.

"A World War Two plaque inside St Andrew's Church lists the names of 20 men from Haughton who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Amongst those names is Harry Innes, the only serviceman from Haughton, known to have served in the Far East but sadly never returned.

"Harry, a Bombardier in the Royal Artillery became a prisoner of war and was sent to work on the infamous Burma Railway on which it is said that 'one prisoner died for every sleeper laid'.

"Harry's descendants are here with us today."

Marjorie Hope, one of Harry Innes' daughters, said: "I am glad I came. Of course it's sad. I didn't really know my dad I was three year-old.

"He was dead two years before we found out - we expected him home.

"The memorial is absolutely beautiful."

  • For the full report and pictures see Monday's edition of the Northern Echo newspaper