MILITARY personnel and East Renfrewshire’s Provost gathered to raise awareness of Armed Forces Day.

Events to mark the occasion, which takes place on Saturday, June 26, are being staged online due to coronavirus restrictions.

The annual flag-raising ceremony at East Renfrewshire Counci's headquarters in Giffnock was attended by Provost Jim Fletcher, Warrant Officer 1 (Regimental Sergeant Major) Nigel Saul and Sergeant Mhango, of the Royal Lancers, with social distancing in place.

The flag will fly outside the council HQ for a week.

Provost Fletcher told the Barrhead News: “Armed Forces Day is always an important date in my diary. It’s a chance to pay tribute and thank each and every one of our service personnel for their continued bravery and efforts.

“Like last year, we are unable to mark Armed Forces Day in our usual manner but this does not mean that Armed Forces Day 2021 is any less important and I hope you are able to take the time to show your support virtually and help mark this prestigious event.”

The annual flag-raising ceremony honours the contribution of the armed forces and recognises dedicated servicemen and women, as well as their families, veterans and the cadet forces.

“Armed Forces Day has become an important day in the national calendar,” added Colonel Peter McCarthy, Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire.

“I am delighted that the flag is being raised in East Renfrewshire to recognise the outstanding contribution that our Armed Forces family make and have made to supporting and sustaining the lifeblood of our country."