Last Saturday was the first time I presented the entire Annual Wales Festival of Remembrance service at Cardiff’s St David’s Hall.

I have been involved for several years, and have always hosted parts of the service.

It is always a moving and memorable experience and this year a number of branches of The Royal British Legion and veterans from the Gwent area were represented, as usual.

It is always important, but especially at this time of year, for us to take stock, put things into perspective and remember the incredible sacrifice others made and continue to make on our behalf.

It was a great honour and pleasure to be at the service, but the most important thing was celebrating how the Legion continuously helps veterans and their families up and down Wales and the Gwent area, receiving 450,000 calls a year across the UK.

Saturday’s was the 35th service, which is always a fantastic event and has become a sell-out in the capital’s calendar.

Thousands of pounds have been raised for the Royal British Legion through this event alone over the years.

It is always a very emotional and inspiring event, particularly when the representatives from The Royal British Legion, the military, ex-service, Veterans Association and civilian services gather on stage in the muster.

It is a very touching and solemn sight and what always leaves a lasting impression on my mind is when, during the two minutes’ silence, all the poppies fall. From my vantage point up on stage, I am able to witness the faces and expressions of all those in the audience. Often, they may themselves be remembering a lost loved one.

It’s a hugely poignant and emotional part of the evening but something I feel hugely privileged to be involved in.

While we continue to address business issues in Wales, the service serves to highlight the challenges many others face in paying the ultimate sacrifice. We are, in fact, incredibly fortunate and Remembrance Day puts our own battles into perspective.

Like many others, I will wear my poppy with pride this month, in celebration of our incredible Armed Forces.