Bolton raises the flag as it marks beginning of Armed Forces Week

Bolton paid respect to those who enrol in the military as it marked the beginning of Armed Forces Week.

A ceremony took place in Victoria Square in the town centre today, June 24, as veterans, councillors, clergy and members of the public gathered to mark the occasion.

Armed Forces Week encourages people to show their support and appreciation for those in the UK's military community, from currently serving personnel to service families, veterans and cadets.

This morning, Bolton marked it. A military band played as dignitaries walked out to the cenotaph from the town hall, before Revd Ian Hepburn, council armed forces champion Cllr Ryan Bamforth and Mayor of Bolton Andy Morgan gave speeches.

Crowds and veterans at the ceremony (Image: Newsquest)

The Last Post was then played by a bugler, before the Armed Forces Day flag was raised above the town hall.

The Mayor's Ceremonial Cadet, Marine Cadet Corporal Murphy Hall, also assisted him, adding afterwards that it was a "great event and a big honour".

Speaking afterwards, Cllr Bamforth said: "I think it is incredibly important. It is for the country to show their respect to our armed forces, particularly them writing a blank cheque to the country.

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Cllr Andy Morgan, the Mayor of Bolton, speaking (Image: Newsquest)

"We want to give our thanks to them and celebrate what they do and the sacrifices they are willing to make, as well as the loyalty and integrity they bring forward.

"Armed Forces Day only started back at the end of my career, but as a veteran I feel real changes in the world to support and promote it.

"There are veterans from various arms, from the RAF to the navy to the army, it is always impressive to see that, even though the services are different, how much the community comes together for them."

He added: "There are also the civilians supporting, coming along to show their respect.

"We also have to credit the forces and show that we won't forget the dedication and work they put in throughout the year."