A SECOND World War veteran was the guest of honour at a village Remembrance lunch.

Last Sunday, Heighington Village was greeted just after dawn to the sound of bagpipes as resident Steve Jackson played at the stroke of 6am outside the church war memorial.

Mr Jackson was one of 2,500 lone pipers across the country who played at their local memorial that morning to mark 100 years since the end of the First World War.

Residents then gathered in the church for a morning remembrance service and minutes’ silence, before making their way to the village hall for a commemorative lunch.

Guests of honour were the Deputy Lieutenant of County Durham, Mr Sandy Anderson, and 99-year-old Doug Sayles, a Royal Navy veteran from the Second World War.

Councillor Gerald Lee said the Remembrance Luncheon was enjoyed by all those who attended.

Speaking to volunteers, he said: “Thank you all for the great contribution you made to the anniversary of the end of the First World War.

“A lovely gesture and something that will add to the village of Heighington.”