A SERVICE to remember troops from Australia and New Zealand who gave their life in the First World War will take place this Sunday (April 22).

Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance, originally devised to honour Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli.

But Milford Haven has another, tragic link to the southern hemisphere.

In 1942, a Wellington bomber with a crew of five Australian airmen and one English man were seen to be in distress while flying over Pembrokeshire.

They failed to land in Talbenny after overshooting the runway, and small explosions were heard coming from the aircraft.

With only one engine working, and witnesses reporting red flares coming from the plane, there was little doubt the crew was experiencing a big problem.

Considered one of the best crews on their course, the pilot struggled to attempt a forced landing, and the craft was seen skimming the tops of houses.

In a bid to avoid serious damage to civilians and property, the pilot tried to steer the plane to the water.

If he had been able to continue for just a few seconds longer, perhaps things would have been different.

Tragically though, the plane came into contact with the old ice factory at Milford Docks, crashing nose-down into the earth bank in front of Hamilton Terrace, and exploding into flames.

All six were killed.

The service will take place at the Australian memorial on Hamilton Terrace, Milford Haven, on Sunday, April 22, at noon. All are welcome to attend.