A major new memorial was being dedicated today to members of security forces killed in Northern Ireland.
Up to 3,000 relatives of members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary, the armed forces and prison officers that were killed over the last 34 years are expected to attend the ceremony in Staffordshire.
The Ulster Ash Grove will form part of a national memorial and trees will be planted at the site in memory of those who lost their lives in service during the violence.
Wreaths are due to be laid and doves set free during the dedication service.
Northern Ireland Secretary Mr Paul Murphy and security minister Ms Jane Kennedy are expected to attend, alongside representatives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Prison Service.
Senior figures from the four main churches in Northern Ireland were also expected to jointly celebrate the ceremony.
The National Memorial Arboretum is a memorial to all the members of the British armed forces who were killed in service, and is located in the village of Alrewas, near Lichfield in Staffordshire.
PA