Crowds stood in solemn silence to remember the men and women who had laid down their lives in the service of their country.

Veterans, dignitaries, school children and members of the public gathered at Hendon war memorial this morning for the annual Remembrance Day service.

Accompanied by a Salvation Army band, members of organisations including the Hendon Sea Training Corps, Air Cadets, Met Police Cadets and the Guide Movement paraded to the memorial.

See a gallery of pictures of Hendon's Remembrance Day Parade here.

Following them was Mayor of Barnet Melvin Cohen, in full regalia, accompanied by the borough's mace.

A bugler played the Last Post ahead of the two minute silence as people remembered the dead of two World Wars and other conflicts.

Clergymen including Rev John Hawkins of St John's Church in West Hendon, Fr Gwyn Clements of St Mary's Church and Rabbi Jonathan Hewes of Hendon United Synagogue led prayers.

Hymns including Jerusalem, Abide with me and the National Anthem were sung by a choir from St Theresa's Primary School.

Cllr Cohen and members of the different groups in the council laid wreaths at the foot of the memorial, as did MP for Hendon Matthew Offord, MEP Marina Yannakoudakis and Chief Superintendent Adrian Usher.

Organisations including The Jewish Association of Ex Servicemen and women, the Sea Training Corps, Old Hendon's Ex Servicemen Club and The Princess of Wales Royal Regiment also laid wreaths.

Speaking after the service, veteran Neville Oppenheimer said he had been very moved. He said: "I come here every year and it ia always a solemn and moving occasion. I particularly enjoy the way the children participate."

Ronald Wills, who served on the HMS Wolfhound during World War Two said he had enjoyed the service, adding it had brought back memories of his time in the navy.

Leader of Barnet Council Richard Cornelius said there had been a lovely atmosphere, aided by the glorious winter sunshine.

He said: "It went very well indeed, particularly the music. "I was most impressed by the number of people who turned up and the number of children present from many organisations, who behaved so well."

Chief Supt Usher said: "The service was very moving and very well attended. It was made even more significant by the number of people who are currently serving the country overseas."