East Renfrewshire Council is showing its support for Armed Forces Day.

Provost Mary Montague joined Colonel Peter McCarthy, Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire, at the council headquarters in Giffnock for a flag-raising ceremony and to pay tribute to the men and women of the armed forces community.

Guests included serving military personnel, veterans, councillors and local residents.

The flag was raised by WO1 Tony Morrin, of HMS Dalriada, and it marks the sacrifices made by those serving the country, past and present.

It will fly all week in the lead up to the 14th national Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 25.

Provost Montague said: “Armed Forces Day celebrations begin on June 20, when the Armed Forces Day flag is raised on buildings and famous landmarks around the country, so I’m delighted to be here today to raise the flag on behalf of everyone in East Renfrewshire.

“A flag-raising ceremony is usually an annual event held by the council but Covid-19 restrictions over the past two years meant it had to be scaled back.

"It’s an important event for so many of our community members each year, so I’m pleased it has been able to return to normal this year.

"It gives local people the opportunity to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community – from serving soldiers to service families and from veterans to cadets.”

Colonel McCarthy added: “We are remarkably fortunate to have the outstanding contribution that our Armed Forces make to supporting and sustaining the lifeblood of our nation.

"How very fitting it is that East Renfrewshire Council are raising the flag today to publicly acknowledge and celebrate the unconditional courage and commitment of everyone in our Armed Forces community.”