COLCHESTER soldiers are set to join the nation marking a day to thank the military with a special event in the city.

A flag-raising ceremony at the Town Hall on Monday, June 24.

The ceremony will begin at 11am, with the raising of the Armed Forces Day flag and the flying of the Pegasus flag of the 16 Air Assault Brigade based in the city.

The event marks the commencement of a week-long national celebration, ending on Saturday, June 29 in Scarborough.

Colchester's mayor, Lesley Scott-Boutell, will lead the proceedings, along with representatives from the Garrison and Colchester Council.

Lesley said: "Raising the Armed Forces Day flag is a chance to express our deepest gratitude to the entire military community for their unwavering dedication to protecting our nation.

"We are especially grateful to the brave men and women of the British Army's airborne forces based here in Colchester, as well as veterans around the world.

"Their sacrifices, both at home and abroad, ensure our continued freedom, safety, and security.

"This is our opportunity to take stock, appreciate what they have achieved and thank them."

Residents are encouraged to attend and demonstrate their support.

Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison, added: "Armed Forces Day is a chance for the nation to thank the military community for its service.

"Colchester Garrison is hugely proud of the deep and longstanding bond that exists between the military and civilian communities in Colchester.

"The raising of the Armed Forces Day flag and the Pegasus flag on Colchester Town Hall is a strong symbol of that mutually supportive relationship.

"We look forward to celebrating that tie at the 16 Air Assault Brigade and Colchester Garrison Show on Saturday June 29."

The Colchester Garrison Show will take place at Abbey Field and is free to the public, showcasing the talents of Colchester's elite 16 Air Assault Brigade, featuring a combat demonstration, military displays, and a Gurkha martial arts display.

The council, in line with its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, encourages service personnel in the city to register their details for updates on pertinent events and issues.

For more information on Armed Forces Day the official website is armedforcesday.org.uk.