Central Bedfordshire Council raised the flag for our servicemen and women ahead of Armed Forces Day at a special ceremony held yesterday.

The flag-raising ceremony at the council’s offices in Chicksands was attended by the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Helen Nellis – who raised the special Armed Forces Day flag, the Bedfordshire High Sheriff Julian Polehill and council chairman Councillor Fiona Chapman.

Other guests included the council leader Councillor James Jamieson, and Councillor Mark Versallion – who is also the council’s Armed Forces Community Covenant Champion.

Specially-invited commanding officers and personnel from the Joint Intelligent Training Group (Chicksands), RAF Henlow, reserve and cadet forces and armed forces support organisations were also present at the event, along with standard bearers from the Royal British Legion.

Mr Jamieson said: “It was a great honour to again hold this ceremony at the Central Bedfordshire Council offices, and show our support for the tremendous work carried out by our armed forces and the voluntary organisations who look after serving and former armed forces personnel and their families.”

Mr Versallion, who was also a naval officer in the reserves, said: “Armed Forces Day – in this, its 10th year – is a time to reflect on conflicts past and present, and honour the sacrifices made by those who serve or have served.

“This year marks 100 years since the RAF was formed, so it is opportune to have this time of reflection and tribute.”

Armed Forces Day is this year on Saturday, June 30.