PATRIOTIC verve will be the order of the day when a Second World War veteran is presented with France’s highest military honour as part of two special events in Darlington to help celebrate Armed Forces Day.

A special Raise the Flag ceremony will be held in the town on Monday, June 19, when there will be a short parade of the Military Association and civic guests from the Town Hall to the Market Square.

The Mayor Cllr Jan Taylor will present the Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur Chevalier on behalf of the French Government to Tom Barker, from Darlington, for his services in defence of the citizens of France.

Local schools have been invited to attend and members of the public are encouraged to join in and show their support. Anyone who wishes to take part should be at the Market Square by 10.15am.

The annual Proms in the Park event will then follow on Sunday 25 at the Bandstand in Darlington’s South Park, from 3pm. The free event will offer music for all tastes and ages and revellers are encouraged to bring along their own picnic and chairs.

Cllr Taylor said: “I’m delighted to be asked to present this honour to Mr Barker on behalf of the people of France as we recognise and say thanks to the members of the Armed Forces, past and present, for their efforts.

“It is only right that we pay tribute to them and I hope as many people as possible will join us on the day and at the Proms in the Park event to help celebrate their special day.”

For more details of the events visit www.darlington.gov.uk/events or call 01325-406990.