Saluting The South's Armed Forces

24 June 2013, 07:25 | Updated: 24 June 2013, 07:49

Events are starting across the South Coast today to mark Armed Forces Week, which pays tribute to the men and women serving in the military.

In Wareham in Dorset, there's a ceremony at 10.30a.m. (24th June) at Purbeck District Council's offices in Worgret Road. Members of the military along with local dignitaries, residents and visitors will be taking part.

Councillor Bill Trite, Chairman of the Council, said: "The District of Purbeck has a strong bond with the Military, so we welcome this opportunity to raise the flag to show the Council's appreciation on behalf of our local community."

Elsewhere, residents and visitors are invited to join members of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force are at North Dorset District Council where there will be a service at the flag pole at 11 a.m.

In Hampshire there's a Flag Raising Ceremony in Winchester which begins at 11.45 a.m. Then 45 service personnel from all three armed services will be led by a military band to The Great Hall where the Armed Forces Flag will be raised at 1p.m.

Armed Forces Day is Saturday 29th June. The day, and the events leading up to it, is an opportunity for the nation to show support for troops, both past and currently serving.