A FLAG raising ceremony was helf in Andover this morning (Monday, June 20), to mark the start of Armed Forces Week. 

The event took place outside the Guildhall on Andover High Street at 10.45am, while a simultaenous event was held in Romsey.

Posting to Facebook, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Cllr Phil North, said: "Privileged to attend the flag raising ceremony in Andover this morning ahead of Armed Forces Day this weekend.

"A huge thanks to the Deputy Mayor, Phil Lashbrook for officiating and to Test Valley’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Nick Matthews for writing and reading a moving poem entitled ‘Ode to a Soldier’.

"Its final line sums up what Armed Forces Day is all about: 'Every man and woman who serves deserves our respect today. But it compares only to those who sacrificed yesterday.'

He continued: "As you go about your business this week please do spare a thought for our Armed Forces and their families, our veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude."

Armed Forces Day is a chance to show  support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets. This year, it will be held on Saturday, June 25.

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