"I am only able to recollect a quarter of the century, one memory that stands out whilst growing up was the Falklands War.

"When I was young the older generations always seemed to be talking about the world wars, and you would never take much notice of what they were saying, probably because you couldn't relate to what they were about.

"During the summer of 1982 for many people, they would witness, albeit at a long distance and by television and newspapers, involvement of British forces in a war for the first time.

"At first, as I recall it, the public didn't seem very interested that there was a fleet of ships sailing to the South Atlantic heading into what was increasingly looking like a war. This soon changed when news reports showing the full horrors of war were screened.

"I can remember the front page of a newspaper showing a British warship engulfed in flames, everybody seemed to want revenge for that.

"When it was announced that the Argentinians had surrendered, people were relieved but also very proud.

"I can recall the jubilant-looking Margaret Thatcher and the happy faces of the reunited families at the port sides weeks later after the ships had returned home.

"One memory I will never forget is of a school friend who was glad that it was all over so he could eat corned beef again, as you were seen to be a traitor if you ate this while the country was at war with Argentina.