Support for Britain’s Armed Forces was marked today with the raising of a special flag in Sutton town centre.

The Union flag – with the words “Armed Forces Day, Show Your Support” on it - was hoisted in a ceremony this morning.

The event was attended by the mayor of Sutton, Councillor Margaret Court, MPs Tom Brake and Paul Burstow, and members of the Royal British Legion, the Air and Sea Cadets, the Royal Naval Association and the Territorial Army.

Coun Court said: “The flag is a symbol of the support we feel towards our brave warriors – the men and woman that are our sailors, soldiers and airmen.

“Your support for the Armed Forces provides a much valued morale boost for our troops and their families. The UK Armed Forces magnificently defend the UK and its interests. They put themselves in harm’s way to protect our way of life and defend our nation’s interests.”

Entrusted with raising the flag, was 12-year-old Meliska Amor, from Sutton Sea Cadets. She said: “I was really proud to raise the flag. I think it’s very important that we remember all the work our Armed Forces do.”

It will fly throughout the week as part of a series of events being held nationwide leading up to Armed Forces Day itself on Saturday June 26, with a main event in Cardiff.

Last year, more than 3,000 flags were hoisted across the British Isles, including 500 flown by local authorities.

Flags were also flown in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Falkland Islands and Fiji.

For more information about Armed Forces Day and to check what other events are taking place see www.armedforcesday.org.uk