A special service has been held to mark the 200th anniversary of a towering monument to Britain's greatest naval hero in Great Yarmouth

The blessing of the Nelson monument at South Denes saw a service led by Rev Simon Ward, the new rector of Great Yarmouth team ministry

Kerry Robinson-Payne, mayor of the borough and curator of the Nelson Museum, gave a talk on the history of the 144ft high landmark.

Prayers were said by Rev Jemma Sander-Heys.

The well attended event also saw John Ward, chairman of Norfolk County Council, among the civic dignitaries present.

The Norfolk Naval Pillar, as it is officially known, was funded by public subscription and cost £7,000.

Work started on August 15 1817 and took two years to complete.

Its location was chosen so it could be seen from the land and the sea.