CERMONIES were held in Cirencester and Moreton-in-Marsh today to commemorate Armed Forces Day 2015.

Cotswold District Council marked the special day today (Monday) by hosting flag raising ceremonies at both its Cirencester headquarters and Moreton Area Centre office.

The events were attended by representatives of South Cerney-based 29 Regt, Royal Logistic Corps, the British Legion and other veterans; military cadets from Deer Park School in Cirencester, pupils from Dormer House School in Moreton and also members of the public and council staff.

At the Cirencester ceremony the council's vice-chairman Cllr Julian Beale praised the work of the armed forces and their families. He made special reference to the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the 70th Anniversary of Victory in Europe and Victory in Japan, which both take place this year.

The Moreton-in-Marsh ceremony was hosted by council chairman, Cllr Mark Annett. He echoed the sentiments expressed by Cllr Beale.

"Cllr Beale and I were proud to welcome fellow past and present members of the Armed Forces to celebrate this special day," he said. "We were also very pleased to see so many attendees from local schools, the public and the council, which shows a growing awareness about the role of the armed forces in helping to safeguard the wellbeing of our communities and making the world a safer place."

Armed Forces Day was first launched in June 2009 to show support for the work of serving troops and cadets, as well as service families and veterans.

This year, the national celebration will take place in Plymouth on Saturday, June 27 and is preceded by a week of ceremonies, parties and marches across the UK.

Visit armedforcesday.org.uk for more information.