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Day of remembrance for Battle of the Somme centenary

Thousands of soldiers who died in the Battle of the Somme were honoured today in tributes to those who were killed in the historic battle, which began 100 years ago on July 1, 1916.

Events have been taking place in the UK and France to mark the centenary.

It follows a sombre evening of vigils commemorating the fallen including a remembrance service at Westminster Abbey led by the Queen.

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Hundreds pay respects to Battle of the Somme heroes

In Britain's towns and cities up and down the country, hundreds of people gathered in cathedrals and city squares to pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the Battle of the Somme.

ITV News royal editor Tim Ewart reports:

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Fallen remembered 100 years on from Battle of Somme

Video report by ITV News Senior International Correspondent John Irvine

Thousands of soldiers who died in the Battle of Somme were remembered today 100 years on.

Services were held around the country and in northern France to commemorate those who lost their lives on July 1, 1916.

The royal family attended a number of events as did Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Francois Hollande.

George Osborne leads Somme tributes in Manchester

George Obsorne lays a wreath in Manchester. Credit: PA

The Chancellor has led commemorations of the centenary of the Battle of the Somme in Manchester.

George Osborne placed a wreath in St Peter's Square in the centre of the city on Friday afternoon.

David Cameron joined the royal family and foreign dignitaries in paying respects at Thiepval Memorial in France, earlier in the day.

The message Mr Osborne left on his wreath. Credit: PA

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Royals lay wreaths at the Cross of the Sacrifice

The Prince of Wales lays a wreath during a service in Thiepval. Credit: PA

The Royal family, led by Prince Charles and French President Francois Hollande, have laid wreaths at the Memorial to the Missing in Thiepval.

The wreaths were laid at the Cross of Sacrifice in front of 10,000 guests.

Prince Harry, the Duchess and Duke of Cambridge. Credit: PA
Prime Minister David Cameron. Credit: PA

Royal family pay respects at Thiepval Memorial

The royal family were joined by the Prime Minsters of France, Ireland and the UK. Credit: PA

Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge have been joined by Prince Harry in paying respects at Thiepval Memorial in France.

The royal members were also joined by the Prince of Wales, French President Francois Hollande, Irish President Michael D Higgins and UK Prime Minister David Cameron.

The somber ceremony in northern France commemorates the centenary of the Battle of the Somme - Britain's bloodiest ever battle.

Writing in the programme ahead of Friday's ceremony, Prince Charles wrote that "their sacrifice and suffering will never be forgotten".

It is truly terrifying to imagine the destruction wrought across this landscape 100 years ago today. However, we now return to the battlefield in a spirit of reconciliation and respect.

We honour the men who served from across Britain and Ireland, the Commonwealth and from France.

We remember, too, the men from Germany who fought and fell in this most futile of conflicts. Their perseverance and courage when faced with such a monumental challenge are truly humbling.

– Prince Charles
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