SUNDERLAND'S army of military veterans are being invited to help play their part in VE Day commemorations.

While the city has one of the highest percentages of Second World War Two and military veterans as residents, many of the modest heroes have never come forward to apply for their veterans' cap badge.

The Sunderland Armed Forces Network is inviting veterans of all ages to apply by May 1 in time to receive their badges from the Mayor of Sunderland, Barry Curran, at a Commemoration and Veterans’ Presentation on Sunday May 8.

Proceedings begin with a short service at the War Memorial in Burdon Road at noon followed by the Veterans’ Badge presentation at 1.30pm, hosted by The Westminster public house within walking distance of Sunderland Minster.

Sunderland Armed Forces Network (SAFN) was established after Sunderland City Council signed the Armed Force Covenant in 2012, and is partnership with veterans’ groups and serving personnel to promote and protect the interests of the 26,000 people living in the city with service records.

Applicants are asked to ring 0191 561 8888 or email sunderlandafn@gmail.com