Prince Charles joins veterans to mark 75th anniversary of Battle of Britain

Prince Charles joined veteran pilots and air crews at London's Westminster Abbey to mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

The Prince of Wales began the service by laying a wreath in front of the 2,200-strong congregation that gathered for the annual event to remember the remarkable victory, as well as the loss of life.

He was handed the wreath by Sir Nicholas Soames, the grandson of Britain's war prime minister Winston Churchill.

Seven veterans who flew hurricane or spitfire aircraft during the historic Second World aerial conflict escorted the Battle of Britain roll of honour, containing the names of those who died during the conflict, to the altar of the abbey.

The Battle of Britain veterans are known as 'the remaining few', honourably named as such by Churchill.

As the service ended the congregation stood to applaud the seven veterans, now all in their 90s, a stirring event that veteran Wing Commander Paul Farnes, 95, from Hampshire described as never having happened before.

The Battle of Britain, fought entirely in the skies over southern England against German aircraft between July and October 1940, lifted the threat of invasion from Hitler and is often described as the most important event in RAF history.

The occasion was also marked by a flypast of four Spitfire and two Hurricanes.

After the service there was a reception for the veterans and their families at Church House, where the Queen's Colour Squadron formed the number 75 during a procession with the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment.

Charles has attended the Battle of Britain service more than 10 times, including the 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Defence Secretary Michael Fallon also attended Saturday's service.