Prince William visits Hereford Cathedral for dedication of new SAS memorial

Prince William has today attended the dedication of a special SAS Memorial.

Ascension - a new sculpture and window honouring the Special Air Service Regiment - was dedicated by the Bishop of Hereford, the Right Reverend Richard Frith.

The service was part of the regiment’s celebration of its formation in 1941.

Many of those who designed and created the memorial were present in the 600-strong congregation, along with those who supported its installation.

Ascension, which took almost three years from conception to installation, was designed and created by John Maine, RA, with Derix Glass Studios of Frankfurt, working with building contractors Treasure & Sons of Ludlow, stonemason Simon Hudson who is based at the cathedral and many other contractors.

The installation was funded by gifts through the SAS Regimental Association and Hereford Cathedral Perpetual Trust.

Commenting on the Service of Dedication, the Dean of Hereford, the Very Reverend Michael Tavinor, said: "We were pleased to welcome HRH The Duke of Cambridge to the cathedral this morning to join us as we dedicated this very special work of art.

"Ascension has been placed in this cathedral church because Hereford is the home of the Special Air Service, and the people of this city and county are proud of their association with it."

The Dean went on: "We hope that many more visitors will come to see Ascension for themselves over the forthcoming weeks and months and will enjoy spending time in our beautiful cathedral and discovering its treasures.’

The Bishop of Hereford said: "Hereford is proud of the role the Regiment plays in protecting people and bringing peace around the world.

"The nature of the work often means it must remain secret, but this does not mean we should not pay tribute to the vital contribution the SAS makes to national and international security.

"I hope this window will offer a focal point for reflection and an enduring visible reminder of the dedication and commitment of Special Air Service personnel both past and present," he said.