WAR veterans, local councillors and shoppers took time out on Monday to honour the thousands of people in Britain's armed forces. A flag raising ceremony was held at the Town Hall to mark the beginning of a week of events leading up to Armed Forces Day tomorrow.

WAR veterans, local councillors and shoppers took time out on Monday to honour the thousands of people in Britain's armed forces.

A flag raising ceremony was held at the Town Hall to mark the beginning of a week of events leading up to Armed Forces Day tomorrow.

In the gaze of more than 50 people high steward Michael Falcon, who served with the Norfolk Regiment, and freeman of the borough Harry McGee, a former military policeman, raised the official Armed Forces Day flag - based on the Union Jack.

Pupils from Flegg High School who are also Winterton Marine Cadets joined in the celebrations along with representatives from the Fleet Air Arm Association and the Royal British Legion.

Leading a short service, watched by local dignitaries including mayor and mayoress Tony and Sara Smith, Rev Arthur Bowles said: “This is celebration of our armed forces, past, present and future. The purpose of this day is to honour their achievements and dedication.”

Rev Irene Knowles led the group in prayer and also attending the event was former Royal Navy rear admiral Scott Lidbitter.

The nationwide event supporting Britain's Armed Forces was the idea of former Gorleston man Bruno Peek which saw local authorities across the country raise flags.