People gathered to show their respect for the Armed Forces as part of a special parade and raise money for a veteran charity.

The event was held by St Stephen Parish Council in Station Road, Bricket Wood on Sunday, June 25 to celebrate national Armed Forces Day.

A collection raised £156 for the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association (BLESMA) which provides support to service-men and women harmed in combat.

The charity has helped more than 62,000 veterans who have lost limbs, the use of limbs or eyes to rebuild their lives by offering welfare support and rehabilitation activities.

The flag was raised by former Royal Anglican Regiment member Stephen Woollard and was followed by music from the Watford Brass Band.

Former Royal Lincolnshire Regiment serviceman Harry Harrison, 85, was there to discuss his experiences of life in the army, and the book he has written about it.

He also contributed his collection of bugles to the large display of memorabilia in Tennyson donated by residents.

Around 200 people joined together for the commemoration, including councillors, veterans, and representatives from 220 ST Albans Squadron Air Training Corps.

Youth groups such as the Beds and Herts Army Cadets, St Colombas Combined Cadet Force and local Guiding and Scouting Units were also there to show support.

Refreshments were provided by the Brownies on the lawn at the Centre.

Parish Council Chairman Cllr Dorothy Kerry said: “This event gives us all the opportunity to think about the work of the armed forces throughout the world, both now and in the past.

“Our chosen charity this year, BLESMA – The Limbless Veterans, has been providing support to our injured servicemen since the 1930s.

“They work tirelessly to guarantee that our limbless veterans are not failed, forgotten or to left to fend for themselves.”

The national event encourages support for serving troops, their families, reservists, veterans and cadets.