The Armed Forces Day flag has been raised at the Civic Centre in Pershore.

Chairman of Wychavon Cllr George Duffy raised the flag during a brief ceremony to mark the lead up to Armed Forces Day, on Saturday, June 29.

The day is dedicated to honouring the contributions of the UK’s armed forces in providing security, promoting peace, providing aid, combating drug smuggling, and combating terrorism.

This year is particularly significant, as it is the 80th anniversary of numerous pivotal battles that changed the course of the Second World War.

These include the Battle of Monte Cassino, D-Day landings, the defeat of the the Japanese at Kohima and Imphal, Operation Market Garden, and the Battle of the Scheldt.

This year also marks 25 years since the involvement of British troops in NATO peacekeeping missions in Kosovo.

Cllr Duffy said: "We’re forever indebted to our armed forces, past and present, for everything they do to protect the security of our country and promote peace around the world.

"In particular, we should never forget the sacrifice and unimaginable courage of the generation that opened the road to freedom during the Second World War.

"That’s why I was delighted to raise the Armed Forces Day flag as a mark of thanks, a display of pride and a sign of our continued support for them and their families."