IT was a secret Second World War military training base located among woodland at what is now Hampshire County Council's Manor Farm Country Park, bordering the upper reaches of the River Hamble.

Sixty years ago HMS Cricket provided accommodation and training for the crews of some of the assault landing craft which were to be involved in the invasion of Europe.

Now D-Day veterans have returned to Cricket Camp to share their memories and see Countess Mountbatten of Burma dedicate a memorial to all those who were based at the camp.

The event, hosted by the county council, was attended by more than 20 HMS Cricket veterans who also got the chance to see a Spitfire flypast and step aboard a Royal Marine landing craft for a short trip along the River Hamble.

A collection of memorabilia, records and memories from HMS Cricket veterans will form the basis of a permanent display at the Barnfield kiosk, which overlooks the memorial.

Councillor Ken Thornber, leader of Hampshire County Council, said: "This event and dedication of the memorial are a fitting tribute to those who spent time at HMS Cricket and those who lost their lives at war.

"As owners and managers of Manor Farm Country Park, we recognise the importance of having a permanent record of the role which HMS Cricket played during the Second World War."