Former Royal Marine Danny Blatchford hopes he will be joined by other veterans to march in Sunday’s Remembrance Day Parade. (0867170)

EX-SERVICE men and women are being encouraged to show solidarity with those involved in current conflicts.

A veterans’ platoon will be part of Sunday’s Remembrance Day Parade for the first time and all ex-service personnel are being invited to take part.

‘Remembrance is not just about the two Great Wars and there have been conflicts in just about every year since 1945 with people getting maimed or killed,’ said platoon commander Danny Blatchford.

‘Some of the people who have served need our help more than ever. There are many with physical or mental disabilities.

‘You only need to look at the sad losses that are being suffered in Afghanistan on an almost daily basis.

‘We would like anybody who has ever served in any of the armed forces to put their medals on, if they have any, and join us.’

Mr Blatchford was born and schooled in Guernsey. He joined the Royal Marines in 1962, aged 17, and retired as a warrant officer at the age of 40. He is now in his second spell with the Civil Service.

A veterans’ platoon was formed for the first time at this year’s Liberation Day 64th anniversary celebrations and about 20 people took part.

‘One chap was pushed around in a wheelchair and another person who was wearing medals joined in when we asked him,’ said Mr Blatchford.

* People who would like to take part should turn up at the Town Arsenal [fire station] assembly point no later than 10.15am on Sunday. Further information is available from parade commander Bob Place on 07781 116824