A LOCAL authority has flown the Armed Forces flag this week in Romsey and Andover in a bid to commemorate Armed Forces Day.

Armed Forces Day is set to take place on Saturday, June 27, and is a chance for people to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community.

The mayor of Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC), cllr Martin Hatley, visited Romsey’s Former Magistrates Court, Church Street, to raise the flag at 11am.

In Andover, Armed Forces Champion, cllr Nick Matthews, raised the flag at the Andover Guildhall.

Cllr Hatley, said: “While the current pandemic means Armed Forces Day this year is undoubtedly different, it is incredibly important that across the borough, we commemorate this day.

"Many sacrifices have been made by so many people for the freedoms we celebrate today.

“From all of us in Test Valley, we thank all of those past, present and future service men and women, as well as the freemen of our borough, who have been carrying out sterling work in supporting our communities during the current pandemic."

He added: “That is why we raise our flags in Romsey and Andover to ensure we mark Armed Forces Day in the right way.”

Cllr Matthews added: “I am extremely proud to represent the borough council in a matter that is, of course, very close to my heart.

"I’m pleased that we are representing those who have given so much to protect our country across the borough.”

The flags in Romsey and Andover were flown on Monday.