A COMMEMORATION event took place to mark the 35th anniversary of a Royal Navy ship's participation in the Falklands conflict.

The ship, HMS Active, was 'adopted' by Burnley with its anchor stationed in the Anchor Retail Park off Active Way.

Cllr Howard Baker, Mayor of Burnley, sent a letter to the veteran crew members of the ship to mark the reunion event which took place in Plymouth on Friday.

In his letter, which will be distributed to all the sailors who served on HMS Active during the 1982 conflict, he said: "Burnley is proud of its long-standing association with HMS Active.

“The ship’s crew served valiantly during the Falklands war, as well as seeing service across the world.

“Burnley continues to recognise, respect and celebrate the contribution which serving personnel and veteran members of the armed forces make to the life and well-being of our country.”

The organisers of the reunion said they were delighted’ with the framed letter, photographs and other items which they received from Burnley Council.

As well as the anchor, a scroll presented to the ship’s company when it was granted the Freedom of the Borough in 1918 is on display in the council chamber at the town hall and various memorabilia including photos, a life belt and the ship’s bell are held by Burnley Sea Cadets.