ARMED Forces Day was marked across the region to celebrate the contribution military personnel and families make to their communities.

The national event saw a range of activities taking place in the North-East and North Yorkshire on Saturday (June 25).

In Sunderland, Mayor Alan Emerson was joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Susan Winfield OBE, for a flag raising ceremony outside the council chamber.

The event, with military personnel and representatives from military regiments saw the presentation of a Falklands War medal and a Veteran’s badge to two Sunderland residents.

Durham County Council signalled its support by flying the flag on County Hall in the run-up to the event and a reception was held for representatives of the Armed Forces. Guests included Garreth Murrell, chief executive of Veterans at Ease. The charity helps veterans, serving personnel and their families deal with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other combat stress-related issues.

Flag-raising ceremonies and events also took place in Richmond, York and Ripley in North Yorkshire.

Catterick Garrison hosted an event for children and young people to improve cohesion between military and non-military children in the run-up to Armed Forces day.

Children were entertained by military bands, took part in an inter-schools sports competition and watched a dog display by the Military Guard Service.

Military chefs served 614 portion of field stew, fruit and a chocolate bar, while units from across the county provided vehicles, equipment, weapons and clothing for children to look at, climb on, wear and enjoy exploring.