Hundreds of people attended the unveiling of a town centre war memorial paid for by readers of the Grantham Journal..

The Johnston Press-owned weekly helped fund the town’s new memorial to all those who have died in combat since 1945, with more than £9,000 donated by Journal readers, businesses and organisations.

Now the project has become a reality with an emotional unveiling ceremony in Grantham town centre.

The five-foot memorial, below right, is one of only a few in the UK to commemorate those who have given their lives for their country from the end of the Second World War to the present day.

Journal editor Tim Robinson said: “The unveiling was a terrific day for the town and the culmination of the Journal’s campaign.

“During the minute’s silence the whole of Grantham stood still for what was an incredibly poignant and emotional moment.”

Dozens of veterans, decked out in uniform and medals, attended the ceremony under a sea of standards and laid wreaths at the base of the memorial.

The paper launched the campaign, spearheaded by reporter Neil Graham, in February after being approached by Grantham veterans.