Monmouthshire County Council Leader, Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, has paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of servicemen and women after attending two remembrance events in Cardiff.

On Saturday 7 November, Cllr Brocklesby represented Monmouthshire at a memorial service in Alexandra Gardens recognising the contribution of ethnic minority and Commonwealth servicemen and women who served in the World Wars and other conflicts.

The event, organised by Race Council Cymru alongside partners including the Royal British Legion and the Royal Commonwealth Society Wales, included a wreath-laying ceremony as well as tributes and performances celebrating the stories and sacrifices of those who served.

Later in the day, Cllr Brocklesby and Cllr Angela Sandles attended a service at Cardiff United Synagogue commemorating those who lost their lives in the two World Wars. The reading of the Roll of Honour formed a particularly moving part of the ceremony.

Cllr Brocklesby said: “It was a privilege to attend these important remembrance services and pay tribute to those who served with such courage and distinction.

“Their sacrifice forms an important part of our shared history. Remembrance means recognising all those who stepped forward to serve, including the many people from ethnic minority and Commonwealth communities whose contribution has not always received the recognition it deserves.

“By remembering their stories, we help ensure their service and sacrifice are never forgotten.”

The councillors thanked organisers and congregations at both events for their warm welcome and for the opportunity to join communities in remembrance.