TWO Chelsea Pensioners, wearing their distinctive scarlet uniform, helped celebrate the 80th anniversary of the return of the in-patients from Ross-on-Wye back to the Royal Hospital in Chelsea in 1946.

The Pensioners, Anne Lloyd and Rodney Trenham enjoyed a packed weekend of commemorative and social events, hosted by members of the Ross-on-Wye and District Branch of the Royal British Legion.

Chelsea Pensioners
CHURCH RECEPTION: The Chelsea Pensioners Anne Lloyd and Rodney Trenham with the High Sheriff of Herefordshire Tamsin Clive, mayor of Ross, Cllr Sarah Freer and Cecilia Griffin, vice chairman of Ross and District British Legion pictured with other legion members and civic leaders. (Illife)

As part of the commemorations to mark the 80th anniversary, a formal service was held for those Chelsea Pensioners who had died during their time in Ross and are buried in St Mary’s Churchyard.

The Chelsea Pensioners had been resident in Rudhall Manor and later in Moraston House from 1939 to 1946.

Chelsea Pensioners
STANDARDS: The British Legion and Girl Guides standards lowered as Doug Auld plays the Last Post on the bugle. (Iliffe)

The High Sheriff, Tamsin Clive laid a wreath as part of the commemoration service at the graveside. which was led by Rev’d Colin Leggate and curate, Rev’d Dr Owen Pembury and attended by Royal Navy, Royal Marine, Army and Royal Air Force Cadets together with Girl Guides.

The names of the Pensioners commemorated there were read out and wreaths of poppies were laid by the Chelsea Pensioners, and the last post and Rouse were played by Des Auld.

Chelsea Pensioners
WREATH LAYING: The High Sheriff of Herefordshire Tamsin Clive lays a wreath at the memorial. (Illife )

Following the service the Chelsea Pensioners attended the Ropewalk for the Ross Carnival, where they met the public and talked about life as an In-Pensioners.

Paul Deneen, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire said: "Huge thanks to the Royal British Legion for their outstanding work in commemorating the wartime evacuation of the Royal Hospital Pensioners.

Chelsea Pensioners
COMMERATIVE SERVICE: Honouring the Chelsea Pensioners who died in Ross during the Second World War. (Illife)

“The event itself provided a fitting tribute to remember those Chelsea Pensioners who had served the nation though had sadly passed away whilst evacuated to Ross. Thanks to everyone who contributed to making this memorable and respectful event such a success."

Chelsea Pensioners
CROWD: Some of the people from Ross who attended the commemorative service at St Mary's Churchyard. (Illife)

The Pensioner’s full story has been revealed in a fascinating exhibition at St Mary’s Church which runs until Friday, August 7 and features recently published research by historian Martin Cawthorne.