A BABY'S cries were the only sound to echo through the Cathedral's two minutes' silence as hundreds gathered in remembrance of Worcester's war dead.

For the congregation, coming to terms with the conflict in Afghanistan, they were an apt reminder of the importance of securing peace for future generations.

The haunting strains of Last Post sent a chill through the Cathedral as sombre war veterans paid tearful respects to fallen comrades.

Deep in thought, people stood with heads bowed until a gunshot, fired by the 214 Worcester Battery of the Royal Artillery, broke the silence.

The Royal British Legion, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Fire Brigade, Worcestershire & Sherwood Foresters regiment, St John Ambulance and British Red Cross joined city dignitaries at the hour-long service.

Anthem for the Fallen, O God our Help in Ages Past and All People that on Earth do Dwell left the congregation wiping away tears as they were asked once more to "remember them".

Justice, freedom and security around the world was the main focus of the service.

Prayers were said for the leaders of nations to have the wisdom and courage to do what was right in current conflicts, and for international relationships to be improved.

Those who had suffered the devastation of war were also remembered, including the homeless, refugees, the injured and mentally distressed.

Dignitaries joined massive crowds around the war memorial after the service.

John Hewlett, chairman of Worcester City Royal British Legion, was one of many who laid wreaths at the war memorial as standard-bearers looked on.

He also placed poppies on the grave in St John's Cemetery of Geoffrey Studdert Kennedy, who became famous as Woodbine Willie, the First World War padre who gave comfort to soldiers in the trenches.