WORCESTER marked the build-up to Armed Forces Day yesterday by raising a special flag at Worcester Cathedral.

The ceremony was attended by Worcester Mayor, Councillor Pat Agar, Royal British Legion standard bearers, members of the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Association and serving members of the TA batteries in Worcester.

A similar flag-raising ceremony took place in Malvern which is set to bang the drum for the county with a number of events planned.

At midday on Saturday - Armed Forces Day - a parade featuring members of Malvern’s Boys’ Brigade and cadet forces, Royal British Legion branches and members of the 214 Battery Royal Artillery, will walk from Malvern Link Common to Victoria Park.

There, a special gala celebration, featuring music, entertainment, games and competitions and even flying displays will be taking place until 8pm.

Leader of Malvern Hills District Council, Councillor David Hughes said: “It is an honour to be part of such an important tradition - raising the flag as a mark of respect and honour for the Armed Forces community, to remember those who have made sacrifices serving our country and to celebrate the men and women of the UK Armed Forces.

“Armed Forces Day is a great opportunity for the local community to come together to show support and appreciation for our Armed Forces and all the good work they do.”

Malvern’s deputy mayor John Jordan, who is organising the event, said he had been overwhelmed by the response.

He first presented his idea for an event to the town council operations committee just over a month ago.

“It really was just an idea but it has really caught the imagination and the backing is more than I could possibly have hoped for,” he said.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to SSAFA (the Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Airmen’s Families Association).