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Diggers remembered at Villers-Bretonneux

Heavy rain did not dampen the Anzac spirit at the dawn service in Villers-Bretonneux, France, this morning.

More than 6,000 turned out for the early service at the Australian war memorial on the outskirts of the town.

The monument was lit up and shone like a beacon across the valley as the first people started to arrive just after 2am.

The choir, the Voices of Birralee entertained the crowd before the official ceremony with World War I songs.

Silence fell across the crowd as the service began and there was a pause while organisers waited for the Gallipoli service to finish before the French commemoration, being shown live in Australia began.

Under wet and grey skies the crowd listened as Master of Ceremonies Major General Dave Chalmers spoke of the sacrifices made on the western front, where more than 45,000 Australians died.

Among the dignitaries attending were Minister for Defence Kevin Andrews and Australian Ambassador to France Steven Brady, while representing the French government was Secretary of State for Women’s Rights Madame Pascale Boistard.

Despite the weather many stayed on after the service posing for pictures at the memorial or touching the hallowed walls where the names of almost 11,000 Australians killed in action, but have no known grave, are listed.

The weather did not dampen spirits. Picture: David Bailey

Following the Anzac commemoration a French service was held at the town centre.

Further commemorative events will be held in the region throughout the day, including two services at Bullecourt.