Heroes who have won the highest honours for their bravery now have a permanent memorial at Westminster Abbey.

Holders of the Victoria Cross, the most exalted military honour for gallantry in action, and the George Cross, awarded to Service personnel and civilians for outstanding bravery while not in the presence of an enemy, attended the unveiling of the memorial by the Queen.

The new memorial, placed in the Nave close to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the Great West Door of the Abbey, is the result of a campaign by the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association.

Besides 34 of the 44 living holders of the medals, the service was attended by the Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon and senior officers from all three Services.

The Memorial ledger will be inset into the paving and is two foot square, depicting both Crosses with their coloured ribbands and the inscription:
Remember Their Valour and Gallantry.

Pictures courtesy of Westminster Abbey.