LIVERPOOL is to mark Armed Forces Day this week with a series of events.

On Monday 20 June the Lord Mayor, Councillor Roz Gladden hosted a launch event at Liverpool Town Hall.

The Armed Forces Flag will fly on the roof of the Town Hall for a week to show thanks and appreciation to the armed services past and present.

Councillor Gladden said:

“Liverpool has always had a proud tradition of supporting our servicemen and women and Armed Forces Day is time for us to give thanks and recognise their work.

“As well as recognising the vital role service personnel currently play in safeguarding our national interests it is also an opportunity to reflect on those who have served in the past. This year it is particularly poignant as it marks the centenary of the Battle of the Somme, where so many Liverpool men gave their lives.

“The city will be holding a number of commemorative events to mark the Somme but Armed Force Day will also be an occasion to reflect on those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country there and in so many other conflicts.”

Armed Forces Day will be officially marked on Saturday 25 June by a service at Exchange Flags which will be followed by an inspection and march-past by cadets, veterans and Merchant Navy personnel. The march will end at Albert Dock, which is staging military exhibitions including vehicles, armaments and displays, along with service personnel to answer questions.

Clare Rawlinson, marketing manager for Albert Dock Liverpool, said:

“Albert Dock Liverpool will be at the heart of the city’s celebrations, and we encourage as many people as possible to come down and be part of this special occasion to celebrate the incredible work carried out by the men and women in our armed forces. Visitors can expect a full and action-packed day of activity for the whole family to enjoy. There will be military vehicles on display, service personnel on hand to answer your questions, and some surprises along the way.”

Councillor Gladden added;

“This is a great opportunity to show our thanks and appreciation for our armed services past and present.

“I hope as many people as possible to come to the service, march past and exhibitions day at to show their support and thanks to all our armed forces past and present.”