FORMER Woking Mayor John Kingsbury was honoured to be presented to Princess Anne during a Royal British Legion event that marked 60 years since the end of National Service.

John was among 1,000 National Service veterans, their families and guests who attended the commemoration at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

As vice-chairman of Surrey county RBL and chairman of the legion’s Bisley, Knaphill and West End branch, he was one of 20 veterans chosen to speak to the princess.

He was able to describe his service from 1954-56 in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps.

“I was so proud to have been part of this commemoration. It brought back mostly happy memories of my two years of military service, which I know was shared by all of the veterans present at the event,” said John, who was also Woking Borough Council leader during his time as a councillor.

Those attending the commemoration enjoyed a celebration tea before taking part in an open-air service.

The event was led by the retiring RBL president, Lieutenant General James Bashall, together with the national chairman, trustees and officers.