Darlington's armed forces raise the flag ceremony

Dozens gathered in the town centre on Monday morning to take part in the ceremony, which saw veterans, service families, veterans and cadets pay their respects. 

There was a short parade from the Town Hall to the Market Square where the Raise the Flag ceremony took place. 

The week-long celebrations climax on Saturday for Armed Forces Day, which will be marked around the UK with several large-scale events. 

Armed Forces Day celebrations begin when the flag is raised on buildings and famous landmarks around the country.

The celebrations will then continue on Sunday, July 3, when the annual Proms in the Park concert takes place at South Park bandstand, starting at 3pm.

Sponsored by The Northern Military Music Group, Modus and the council, the free event will feature music for all tastes and ages and is in aid of ABF – The Soldiers’ Charity. No tickets are needed just bring along your chairs, picnics and your flags to wave and join in the fun.

Councillor Mike Renton, cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “Working with our Armed Forces champion, Cllr Brian Jones, I want to use this year’s event as a springboard to reach out to as many serving men and women, past and present, in order to let them know that we, as a council, are here for them.

"This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever before because it will mark a sea change in the way we celebrate and support our Armed Forces in this time for long into the future.” 

Council leader Jonathan Dulston added: "I’m honoured to be able to be a part of this event which recognises their efforts and sacrifices that enable us to enjoy the life and freedoms that we have.”

Take a look at how Monday's ceremony went. All pictures: SARAH CALDECOTT