Prince William Dedicates SAS Tribute In Hereford

Picture credit: James Maggs/Hereford Times

The Duke of Cambridge has visited Hereford Cathedral for the dedication of a new artwork crafted in tribute to the SAS.

Amid tight security, William's unpublicised engagement saw him view the cathedral's new stained glass Ascension window and stone monument which was made in memory and honour of those who serve in the British Army's most renowned special forces unit.

The SAS, whose duties have included counter-terrorism and behind the lines sabotage, began life in the Western Desert in 1941 and set up bases in Herefordshire in the 1950s, training across the Brecon Beacons and mid-Wales.

Many parishes across the diocese have connections to the regiment, from serving soldiers and their families to retired members and support staff.

The SAS Regimental Association commissioned artist John Maine to celebrate the links.

The stained-glass window is made from 3,000 pieces of glass, many in shades of blue.

The cathedral's dean, the Very Reverend Michael Tavinor, has described the tribute as;

"one of the most important pieces of new cathedral art in the world."