by Katie Alston

kalston@thekmgroup.co.uk

The last battle to be fought on British mainland soil, which ended with German Prisoner's of War being taken for a pint, has been commemorated.

Marking the 70th anniversary of the battle of Graveney Marshes yesterday more than 100 people gathered for the unveiling of a plaque at the Sportsman pub in Seasalter.

The ceremony also celebrated the 95th anniversary of the London Irish Rifles getting their second battle honour on their standard for the Battle of Loos on September 25, 1915.

Soldiers and cadets from the LIR, as well as members of the Regimental Association were there to remember the often forgotten tale of bullets, bombs and bravery.

The Lord Mayor of Canterbury Pat Todd, was joined at the proceedings by London Irish Rifles Regimental Association president Major General Corran Purdon, president of RAFA Whitstable and Tankerton Branch, Group Captain Trevor Dole and Commanding Officer 321 City of Canterbury Squadron Air Training Corps Flt.Lt. Emma Dando.

Following a march past the pub and an inspection of the soldiers, Rev. Donald Lugg held a service, with music provided by Whitstable Brass.

Several of those who saw the German plane crash land in Seasalter where at the ceremony to recall their version of events.

John Dann, 83, who now lives in Wilmington, was 13-years-old at the time of the battle.

He was fishing in the dyke with a friend when he saw the plane dive into the fields.

He said: "It was all a bit of a surprise, and was quite exciting.

"The soldiers told us to lay on the ground and we heard the shots.

"I can see it all so clearly, and can even remember that two of the Germans had blonde hair. They were so arrogant.

"I wasn't scared more intrigued as to what was going on. Little did I know the significance of what was happening in front of me, that I was witnessing history unfold.

"It is nice that a permanent reminder is being put together, and that so many have come out to mark the occasion."

Sisters Brenda Hitches and Sheila Gilham were also at the commemoration.

The pair who now have four grandchildren each and still live in Seasalter were 10 and eight years-old when they saw the plane crash as they cycled along the road.

"The siblings who lived at Waldens at the time didn't realise what was unravelling before their very eyes.

Mrs Gilham said: "We weren't really aware of the danger, but we were certainly left shaking once it was all finished.

"It is good that history is being marked and to be able to recall memories with others. It is important that history is remembered.

"I can't believe how many people have come along."

Dickie Bird, from the Whitstable Royal British Legion Club, said: "I never expected so many people to come along to mark this incredibly important occasion.

"It is nice to have serving soldiers and veterans here, and recognise a battle which is often forgotten.

"It is right that a lasting memorial is unveiled to mark the anniversary, and to have so many here to witness it."