Former Welsh Guards bandsman Kelvyn Jenkins hosted a moving remembrance event in Hay-on-Wye on August 3, unveiling two commemorative benches.

One bench honours local men who died in the Second World War, while the other pays tribute to the agents of the Special Operations Executive (SOE).

The ceremony was attended by Tania Szabo, daughter of SOE heroine Violette Szabo GC, and Malcolm Rolfe, a relative of SOE agent Lilian Rolfe.

The Second World War memorial bench, commemorating local men who gave their lives
The Second World War memorial bench, commemorating local men who gave their lives (.)

A service of remembrance was led by Glyn Morgan MBE, Deputy Lieutenant of Herefordshire. Association and Royal British Legion standards were dipped as the Last Post was played.

Major Chris Hunter QGM gave a moving introduction, placing the benches in the wider context of the Second World War, while Major Fred Greenhow MBE, a battlefield historian and veteran, spoke passionately about the courage and sacrifice of SOE agents.

Vintage singer Jayne Darling performed wartime favourites, bringing the 1940s to life. Sue, Richard, and Jenny served drinks and snacks, including treats inspired by ration book recipes, paying tribute to the resourcefulness of the time.

Standard bearers were present to mark the occasion
Standard bearers were present to mark the occasion (.)

The first bench, installed at the Craft Centre to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, honours local men who lost their lives, providing a public space for reflection. Memorial benches like this have long been part of British tradition, offering a quiet place for remembrance. Thanks were given to Mary Morelli for her generosity and to Stephen and Gareth Ratcliffe for creating a setting that suited the occasion perfectly.

The second bench, donated by the late Angela Kelly, who passed away in January, is placed at the entrance to Oxford Road car park, looking towards Hay Bluff. Kelly, who was passionate about remembering the work of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), dedicated it to the agents of SOE F Section, Churchill’s secret army. Many of these operatives - women like Violette Szabo and Lilian Rolfe, both executed in 1945 - carried out dangerous missions behind enemy lines, sabotaging Nazi operations, supporting resistance networks, and gathering intelligence. Their work was vital to the Allied victory, yet their stories remain lesser-known.

The SOE bench
The SOE bench (Charlotte Barrell)

Thanks also go to Hay Town Council for granting permission to place the bench at this location.