“Impersonating a Naval officer is insulting to anyone connected to the service and could be considered a criminal offence,” a Royal Navy spokesperson said today, after a man in a rear admiral’s uniform joined Llandudno’s Remembrance service on Sunday 9 November. North Wales Police have since arrested a 64-year-old on suspicion of offences relating to the unlawful use of military uniforms.

North Wales Police said the man, from the Harlech area of Gwynedd, was arrested after images of him at the wreath‑laying in Llandudno, Conwy, circulated widely on social media and in the press. “During a search of the male’s address, a naval uniform and a selection of medals were recovered,” said Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan, adding that enquiries are ongoing.

On the day, suspicions were raised when the parade marshal spoke to the man and he identified himself as a Rear Admiral representing the Lord Lieutenant’s office. Llandudno Town Council later said: “The Council was not aware of, or notified of, the gentleman’s attendance in advance. He appeared on the day.” Photographs showed him laying a wreath and saluting at the memorial.

Veterans in Conwy voiced anger online, noting that several of the medals on display could not credibly be earned together and that elements of the outfit looked off. The Walter Mitty Hunters Club, a volunteer group that highlights suspected military impersonation, quickly flagged the images.

By law, wearing a military uniform without authority can be an offence under the Uniforms Act 1894, which restricts the use of naval and army dress and insignia. Wearing medals you were not awarded is not, on its own, a criminal offence in the UK unless used to commit fraud; a 2016 bid to tighten the law did not pass.

For Llandudno-and for towns across the North and North Wales-Remembrance is a community effort led by veterans, cadets, clergy and volunteers. This year’s service began at Holy Trinity at 9.45am before the wreath‑laying at the war memorial, attended by the town’s mayor and local groups.

Police have not named the man and he has not been charged. Further updates will follow as enquiries continue, with the Royal Navy stressing that nothing should detract from the solemn purpose of Remembrance.

We’re not naming the suspect at this stage. What happened in Llandudno has struck a nerve across our patch, but the day still belonged to the veterans, families and cadets who stood in silence to remember.