HUNDREDS of people have been paying their respects to those past and present who have died fighting for the British armed forces at a series of remembrance events across the district.

Ceremonies in Epping, Loughton, Chigwell and most villages in the area attracted large crowds, despite the threat of rain from stormy clouds looming overhead.

Among those paying tribute were dozens of war veterans, politicians, police, army cadets, residents and families personally touched by losses on the battlefield.

For more reports and a picture special, see this week's Guardian out on Thursday.