A 65-year-old man has been fined nearly £800 after admitting to wearing an unauthorised Royal Navy admiral's uniform at a Remembrance Sunday ceremony in north Wales.
Jonathan Carley, of Harlech, pleaded guilty at Llandudno Magistrates' Court to wearing uniform bearing the mark of His Majesty's forces without permission. He was fined £500 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £200 victim surcharge.
The court heard that on 9 November 2025, Carley attended the Remembrance Sunday event in Llandudno wearing a uniform altered to resemble that of a rear admiral, despite never holding that rank. He had customised a legitimate cadet uniform with medals bought online and rear admiral rings added by a tailor.
District Judge Gwyn Jones told Carley his actions were "foolish" and disrespectful to those who served and those who did not return. Prosecutor James Neary said Carley walked in formation, saluted the war memorial, and approached organisers to chat, even walking alongside a genuine veteran while a wreath was laid.
Suspicion arose when photos of Carley in the uniform appeared online, as Llandudno town council confirmed no such rank was expected. When police arrived, Carley reportedly said: "I've been expecting you." He later explained he wanted a sense of "belonging and affirmation".
Defence lawyer Mark Haslam described the case as "very sad", citing Carley's mental and physical health issues. Carley acknowledged his actions were totally inappropriate and caused significant distress.
