MILFORD Haven Town Council paid tribute to the sacrifices of its fishermen at a special service last Thursday.

The crews of five local vessels, lost between 1938 and 1962, were the focus for the service, which took place at the town cemetery.

Rev Andy Bookless led this year’s memorial, speaking to a packed chapel of relatives of the dead, and those who just wanted to pay their respects.

Wreaths were then laid of the graves of those who died, including the crew of the Gordon Richards, Milford Viscount, Richard Crofts, Robert Limbrick and Boston Heron.

Laying the first flowers was mayor of Milford Haven Cllr Colin Sharp, who recently attended a service marking 80 years since the loss of the Gordon Richards trawler.

"It was very interesting and moving to attend the service in Marloes recently, especially considering so many people from Milford Haven lost their lives aboard that ship," he said.

"It was an honour to commemorate them on the 80th anniversary.

"We've had a big crowd today, including relatives of those lost on the Gordon Richards, and relatives of those who died on the other ships.

"It's very touching that people come out and remember them.

"It's very important that we pay tribute to those who gave their lives for the fishing industry, as we are a fishing port."

Lynne Turner, who sits on the town council's cemetery sub-committee, added: "It was lovely to see the chapel full for the first official service since the renewal of the roof.

"This is a great example of the town council working towards the improvements at the cemetery as part of an ongoing schedule of work."