DIGNITARIES from across Farnham came together on Monday to take part in a special flag raising service ahead of Armed Forces Day.

Deputy town mayor David Attfield welcomed guests to the ceremony, which recognises individuals who make up the armed forces community from currently serving troops to service families, reservists, veterans and cadets.

Farnham Town Council was pleased to add its support for the armed forces and invited Michael Tweedie-Smith of the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment and students from Waverley Abbey, to join him in unfurling the Armed Forces Day flag.

This simple act shows support for the armed forces who are busy working around the world, promoting peace, delivering aid, tackling drug smugglers, providing security and fighting terrorism. It also provides a much valued morale boost for the troops and their families.

Mr Attfield noted his delight that the 3rd Battalion of the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (3PWRR) is based in Farnham at the Reserves Centre in Guildford Road, and that he was able to welcome representatives of 3PWRR, old soldiers and representatives of the town’s cadet forces, as well as young people from Waverley Abbey School.

“Young people are our future, which at times like this seems uncertain and confusing,” said Mr Attfield.

“We are fortunate to have very strong cadet groups in Farnham from all the services, air, sea and army along with other groups such as the Scouts, Guides and Girls’ Brigade. I hope that the work they all do will create a brighter future.

“The community is a tremendous support and it is good to see the Chamber of Commerce, Farnham Lions, Farnham Rotary and the Red Cross among representatives of our community organisations here.”

Waverley also held a flag-raising ceremony to mark the special day. The annual ceremony was held at the front of the Waverley Borough Council offices at The Burys in Godalming, to formally show support to those who have served in the armed forces.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Waverley, Simon Inchbald, the Mayoress, Rosie Inchbald, the High Sheriff of Surrey, Robert Napier CBE and councillors and staff from Waverley Borough Council.

The mayor’s chaplain, Rev Sarah Brough, led the congregation through a short service before the flag was raised by Cpl Richard Frizzell, representing the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment.

At the end of the service, the mayor thanked everyone for attending and encouraged people to support Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 24.