Farnham has shown its support for the men and women that make up the UK armed forces during a flag-raising ceremony held at the war memorial in Gostrey Meadow.

The Armed Forces’ Day tribute was led by the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor John Ward on Monday 20 June. He was joined by special guests who included Bill Biddell, Vice Lord Lieutenant of Surrey; Sir Ray Tindle CBE DL, Freeman of Farnham and representatives from the Royal British Legion, the Army Benevolent Fund, Air Cadets, Farnham Chamber of Commerce and Farnham Visitors’ Council. The Armed Forces’ Day flag was unfurled by Colour Sergeant Marcos Morley and Captain Willie McKean of the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment.

Speaking afterwards, the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor John Ward said: “On behalf of Farnham, I felt honoured to lead the thanks to our troops and their families. Our armed forces do a wonderful job working around the world to promote peace, deliver aid, tackle drug smuggling and fight against terrorism.

“I am particularly proud that Farnham is the home town of A Company, Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment local Army Reserve Unit. Reservists balance their civilian life with a military career so that should they be needed; they will be ready to serve their country. I was delighted that so many veterans and armed forces representatives were able to join us.”

The Armed Forces’ Day ceremony was the first civic event to be held at the war memorial since Farnham Town Council refurbished the paving surrounding the memorial. During the works, the opportunity was also taken to install a new flag pole for occasions such as Armed Forces’ Day and Remembrance Sunday.