The Armed Forces flag is now flying above County Hall and the Guildhall, as Worcestershire marks the beginning of this year’s Armed Forces week.

Councillor Rob Adams, Chairman of Worcestershire’s Armed Forces Covenant Partnership, Councillor Peter Tomlinson, Chairman of Worcestershire County Council and Brigadier Roger Brunt, Deputy Lieutenant attended a closed, social distancing tribute at County Hall to see the flag raised.

Councillor Rob Adams, Chair of Worcestershire Armed Forces Covenant Partnership said: “Coronavirus may have stopped us marking Armed Forces Week in style through planned events that were due to take place across the county this year.

"Therefore, it’s imperative that we raise the Armed Forces flag as a symbol and fitting tribute for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community; our serving troops and their families, reservists, veterans and cadet forces.

"As well as continuing with their defence tasks at home and across the globe some 20,000 members of the Armed Forces are playing a vital part in the national effort to combat the coronavirus pandemic working alongside the NHS in strategic and frontline roles. It is important, more than ever this year, that we acknowledge the outstanding contribution the Armed Forces make to our nation.”

Across the country, local authorities, town and parish councils traditionally raise the Armed Forces Day flag to mark the beginning of Armed Forces Week, leading up to Armed Forces Day which would have been Saturday 29th June.

Meanwhile the Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Jo Hodges, was joined by military personnel to observe the raising of the Armed Forces Day Flag over the Guildhall.

“We are raising the flag over the Guildhall as a sign of thanks and appreciation to all those who put themselves in the front line in order to protect our freedom and way of life. We are also showing solidarity for their loved ones and families,” She said.

Cllr Chris Mitchell, Worcester City Council’s Armed Forces Champion, who spent 20 years in the Army.

“I urge people this week to remember the selfless commitment, courage and sacrifice that our brave service men and women make to keep others safe.”

“Showing support for the Armed Forces provides a much-valued morale boost for the troops and their families – many of whom live locally.”

For more details of Armed Forces Day and how it will be marked nationally, go to www.armedforcesday.org.uk.