The event, which has taken place for more than 20 years, was organised by the Scarborough branch of the Royal British Legion.

Around 200 veterans and members of the public took part in a cross-planting ceremony in the gardens of Alma Square to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives during the two world wars and other conflicts including the Falklands campaign.

Veterans, proudly wearing their poppies and service medals, stood with their heads bowed as prayers were read by the Rev Richard Walker of St Mary's Church.

More than 40 crosses representing groups and organisations were then planted into the grassed area, led by Scarborough's mayor Cllr Janet Jefferson and Royal Navy veteran George Southern BEM, vice president of the Scarborough Royal British Legion.

Twenty standards were on parade and included representatives from the cadet forces in Scarborough and the Scouts.

The Last Post was sounded by Duncan Morrell of the Yorkshire Volunteers Band. The band then led the march through Westborough and towards the Royal British Legion headquarters in Bar Street, with members of the public clapping as the veterans paraded by.

Mr Southern, 86, also took the salute on the Town Hall steps with the mayor and her consort Geoff Jefferson. Mr Southern said: "I have taken the salute for two years now and it is a great privilege. This is a wonderful event and more people seem to come each year."

John Anderson BEM, secretary of the Royal British Legion in Scarborough, said: "It's an honour to get involved with these veterans. The cross-planting is very unique for Scarborough and the public turnout every year is very good.

"The support for the poppy appeal in Scarborough is among the best in the country – we raised £36,000 here last year. It's so important to have the public support, and the support we get from cadet units in Scarborough, especially the sea cadets, is excellent."