A SMALL group of people came together in Ledbury to mark International Conscientious Objectors Day on Wednesday, May 15.

The group met by the Freedom Bench in the town's walled garden to remember past and present conscientious objectors in Britain and across the world.

The meeting, organised by the Hereford Peace Council was described as "a quiet, reflective ceremony, the first of its kind in Herefordshire".

Spokesman David Chapman said: "We heard moving testimonies of some of the men of World War One in Britain who objected to killing other people on conscientious grounds.

"Ten white flowers were laid on the bench in memory of named individuals around the world as a representative sample of people who are currently imprisoned for their principles and beliefs.

"It followed closely the format used in the annual event held in Tavistock Square Gardens, London."