Battle of the Somme memorial - BBC News.
A flare was launched to begin commemorations
The Prince Of Wales has laid a wreath in a service of remembrance for those who died in the Battle of the Somme, which began 90 years ago.
Earlier whistles were blown in nearby Thiepval Wood to signal the start of the attack - just as they were in 1916.
More than 19,000 British soldiers died on the first day of the battle - the British Army's worst day - and 125,000 died over the next five months.
In a speech, the prince said: "We will never forget them." END.
When that whistle blows today, I want to see the same commitment to our country as those brave young men shown 90 years ago.
If they only show half...we'll be unstoppable.
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