The second annual event at Dewsbury Town Hall was hosted by Dewsbury, Mirfield and Heckmondwike MP Shahid Malik, who gave a speech praising war veterans and attacking right-wing and Islamic extremists.

Guests enjoyed a meal and a medley of wartime anthems from singer Caroline Romley.

After lunch guests heard contributions from Veterans Minister Kevan Jones MP; Major David Wroe MBE and DL, and Mr Malik.

In his speech the MP paid tribute to those present and to military generals who had told the BNP not to steal military symbols in an attempt to hijack the good name of the army.

Mr Malik concluded by saying that the true defenders of England were those present in Dewsbury Town Hall and veterans around the country – on this day he said the true patriots were not demonstrating in Leeds but in Dewsbury.

He said: "It's right that we celebrate the truly outstanding contribution that was made by so many local people both during past wars as well as current conflicts.

"Special thanks go to guest speakers Major David Wroe, Bob Mortimer and Kevan Jones and also to everyone who helped out to make the event such a success."

Veterans Minister Kevan Jones MP: "I was really pleased that Shahid has organised such a great event, which is a great tribute to local veterans. I attend veterans events up and down the country. This was one of the best attended and was well organised too. Shahid has done local people proud."

County president of the Royal British Legion, Bob Mortimer, also said a few words and delivered the exaltation.