MEMBERS of the Royal British Legion, former and current military personnel, and councillors came together today for two special flag-raising ceremonies to mark this year’s Armed Forces Day.

Organised by Cotswold District Council (CDC), the two events took place at the council’s officers in Cirencester and the Area Centre in Moreton-in-Marsh, with those in attendance braving the rain to salute the flags.

Cllr Julian Beale, CDC vice-chairman, in a short speech outside the Trinity Road offices, brushed off the miserable weather, saying: “100 years ago our armed forces were fighting in Flanders in the sort of weather we’ve got here today. It brings it back to us to remember that.

“This an important day and it’s marked the start of a week of celebrations of the contribution of the armed forces, leading up to a really terrific display that’s going to be in Lincolnshire at the end of this week.

“By flying this special flag we’re showing our support for the men and women who make up the community of the armed forces, serving troops, service families and cadets.

“As each year passes, this Armed Forces Day is gaining in its recognition, emphasising the challenges faced by our serving personnel in areas of the globe, very often in inhospitable and dangerous conditions.

“Their work can be extremely dangerous, as we know, and can lead to illnesses and wounds, and sometimes even fatalities. But these are people who are heroic and deserve our greatest thanks and respect."

He went on to describe how, at a local level, thanks to the countywide Armed Forces Community Covenant, CDC are “building ties” with armed forces personnel and families, and that “this is especially notable to see the good links between the council and the 29 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps” – based at the Duke of Gloucester Barracks in South Cerney.

The flag was then raised at half-mast in tribute to MP Jo Cox, who was killed last week.

Harrison Tasker, 15, a cadet and pupil at Cirencester Deer Park School, was one of those in attendance.

He said: “I came last year too. I think this is something which is very important, to pay your respects. It’s good to see a few familiar faces again; just a shame about the weather. Good old British weather.”

Since its introduction in 2009, Armed Forces Day has gathered ground, with this being the fourth year running that CDC has staged a ceremony at Moreton as well as Cirencester.