Ellesmere's veterans have paid tribute to servicemen and women in Shropshire and beyond during a ceremony to mark UK Armed Forces day.

On Saturday, June 26, Members of the Royal British Legion held a short ceremony outside the town hall where the town’s Mayor, Councillor Paul Goulbourne raised the flag in tribute to the dedication of members of the Royal Navy, the Army and the RAF.

The ceremony was part of dozens of others across the county held to highlight the work of the county's military personnel on Armed Forces Day.

"The sacrifices they make in order to keep our country safe must never be forgotten," said councillor Goulbourne.

"It is worth remembering that over the past year they’ve played a key role in supporting the NHS and other government service in dealing with the Covid 19 pandemic."

Councillor Geoff Elner, who represents Ellesmere on Shropshire Council, said that by signing the military covenant the authority had again pledged its commitment to those who have "selflessly served our country".

"This offered a offered great opportunity for us all to be able to show how proud we are support Shropshire’s armed services community and to be able to offer our thanks and appreciation for all their work not only in Shropshire, but wherever they may serve."

Armed Forces Day, formerly Veterans' Day, in the United Kingdom is an annual event celebrated in late June to commemorate the service of men and women in the British Armed Forces. Veterans' Day was first observed in 2006.

Bob McBride, chairman of the Legion’s Ellesmere and District branch, added:

"This day gives a much-valued and well-deserved morale-boost to our troops and their families.

"We should all be extremely proud of them for the work they do in promoting peace and security around the world."

The ceremony concluded with prayers led by the Vicar of Ellesmere, the Rev. Pat Hawkins.