THE NEW chairman of East Devon District Council will join with hundreds of communities across the UK to simultaneously raise the Armed Forces Day flag to kick off a week of events and celebrations.

THE NEW chairman of East Devon District Council will join with hundreds of communities across the UK to simultaneously raise the Armed Forces Day flag to kick off a week of events and celebrations.

Councillor Graham Liverton will hoist the flag at 10.30am at The Knowle, Sidmouth, on Monday, June 22.

Sidmothian Mr Liverton said: "I, and my fellow members, welcome the opportunity to take part in this historic event to celebrate the UK's Armed Forces - past, present and future.

"Our service men and women risk everything in defending our country, including the ultimate sacrifice, wherever they are sent in the world, and we owe them a great debt of gratitude.

"We will take great pride in raising the special flag which heralds the start of a week of celebrations to be held in their honour."

A special drumhead service has been organised in Sidmouth for Saturday, June 27, by the local Royal British Legion branch for the day - renamed from last year's Veterans Day - and representatives of the Armed Forces, led by Sidmouth Town Band, will march through the town before the service, which starts at 3pm.

East Devon MP, Hugo Swire, will be marching with Sidbury and Sidford RBL branch.

Others represented along with veterans are the Royal Naval Old Comrades and Air and Army cadets.

From 2pm there will be stalls and games at The Ham, including a barbeque, bottle stall, children's lucky dip, face painting, model railway and cake stall.

Chairman Dave O'Connor has been organising a drill demonstration by the ATC and a Tai Kwando display.

The day will end at 6pm with the lowering of the Union Flag.

Sidmouth RBL secretary Maxine Kershaw said: "We are trying to involve our younger generations, and trust there will be something for all ages to enjoy on the day.