A SERVICE was held to commemorate the lives of those who died on the HMS Ardent during the Falklands conflict.

Among the crew was Barrovian 18-year-old AS Sean Hayward.

Able Seaman Sean Hayward was among 22 crew who died on May 21 1982 after HMS Ardent was attacked by Argentine aircraft.

His twin brother Barry recalled the events of the sinking.

He said: "40 years ago, the life that I and my family knew changed irrevocably and forever. HMS Ardent was attacked and severely damaged, but still having some control, Commander Alan West steered the failing vessel toward Grantham Sound.

"Along with 21 other shipmates, my twin brother Sean was killed whilst working damage control duty on the aft end, where a direct hit in the hangar ended his short life of 18 years."

AS Sean Hayward was posthumously awarded the Elizabeth Cross for his sacrifice.

The event saw members of various services come together to remember the lives of those who were lost.

AS Sean Hayward’s family was also in attendance at the service.

Simon Evans, Cumbria's representative for the Riders Branch of the Royal British Legion, said: “A few months of planning came together to remember the Crew of HMS Ardent and all others who lost their lives during the Falklands Conflict.

“We found out about an Able Seaman Sean Hayward who had a bench in the grounds of the crematorium and found his brother and a plan was hatched.

“Thank you to the members of the Riders Branch who turned out today, and to Helen for helping me tidy up the area and painting the bench.

“The family were overwhelmed by the heartfelt service. Thanks also to the various Veterans Associations, the Standard Bearers and also the Sea Cadets.”

Pictures of the event were captured by Helen Scarr Evans and Alex Webb.