A SPECIALLY commissioned flag was today hoisted above Kendal Town Hall to support Armed Forces Day.

Chairman of South Lakeland District Council Cllr Sylvia Emmott and army Captain Steve Firth raised the flag to celebrate the essential role of the armed forces, both past and present, in a service this morning.

They were joined by armed forces representatives Commanding officer Dave Horseman of the Royal British Legion, Lieutenant Clive Sumter and Chief Petty Officer Andy Edger of the Sea Cadets and representatives from Queen Katherine School, Kendal.

Those attending gathered at the town hall entrance, where two Sea Cadet buglers played ‘The Last Post’ and ‘Reveille’ while the flag was raised.

The flag will fly above the town hall until after Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

This is the sixth Armed Forces Day, an annual event that raises public awareness of the contribution made to the country by those who serve and have served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.

It also gives the nation an opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community, from currently serving troops to service families and veterans to cadets.

Chairman of SLDC, Cllr Sylvia Emmott, said: “This is a good opportunity for the council and the South Lakeland community to express support and build partnerships with various local branches of the armed forces represented at this flag-raising event.

“This marks the start of a week of local and national events. I hope everyone can take part and continue to share common goals of living together in peace supported by the forces.”

On Armed Forces Day itself there will be a wide range of community-led events taking place in towns and cities around the country. 

For more information on the celebrations taking place, and how you can take part, visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Pictured is Chief Petty Officer Andy Edger of the Sea Cadets with Chairman of the Council Councillor Sylvia Emmott, Private Leanne Dixon, Commanding officer Dave Horseman of the Royal British Legion and Queen Katherine School pupil and army cadet James Walton.