Councils and elected representatives have been raising a flag this week in recognition of the Armed Forces.

This week is Armed Forces Week, the annual national campaign that gives everyone the opportunity to show their support for the men and women of the Armed Forces past and present, including currently serving troops, service families, Reservists, veterans and cadets.

Numerous virtual and socially distanced events are taking place across the country to commemorate the event, with flags raised on buildings and famous landmarks nationwide.

In Watford, the town's mayor Peter Taylor and Watford Borough Council chairman Bilqees Mauthoor have raised the flag outside Watford town hall.

Mr Taylor said: "I was proud to raise the flag to mark Armed Forces Week. It's so important to care for our armed forces personnel, who have sacrificed so much to keep us safe at home and abroad. I also want to thank the Armed Forces for all they have and are doing to support us through this current crisis."

Watford Observer: Watford mayor Peter Taylor and council chairman Bilqees Mauthoor outside Watford Town HallWatford mayor Peter Taylor and council chairman Bilqees Mauthoor outside Watford Town Hall

Cllr Mauthoor added: "I want to say on behalf of Watford as a town and its people, to all of our veterans, service personnel, reserves and their families, whether you are at home or overseas, thank you for all that you do. There is pride in our town for those who are serving in our armed forces and respect for our veterans."

Over in Rickmansworth, leader of Three Rivers District Council, Sarah Nelmes, was joined by council chairman Keith Martin and fellow councillor Jon Tankard, who is Three Rivers' current appointee to the Hertfordshire Armed Forces Covenant, to mark the occasion.

Cllr Tankard said: "It’s a great honour to be the Armed Forces Covenant holder for Three Rivers District Council. The Armed Forces continue to defend the UK and its interests.

"They promote peace, provide security, deliver aid, tackling drug smugglers, and fight terrorism across the world. They do a tremendous job and we should all be very proud of them."

Watford Observer: Cllr Jon Tankard, left, marking Armed Forces week with council chairman Keith Martin and leader Sarah NelmesCllr Jon Tankard, left, marking Armed Forces week with council chairman Keith Martin and leader Sarah Nelmes

Hertsmere mayor Anne Swerling led a small ceremony outside the Hertsmere Borough Council civic offices in Borehamwood on Monday.

She said: "Armed Forces Day is a way that we can come together as a nation to recognise the outstanding dedication and commitment our military officers make in the service of their country.

"I just cannot emphasise enough the importance of the role performed by the women and men who make up our armed forces. They work around the world to defend the UK and its interests and to promote peace.

"We will be flying the Armed Forces flag outside our offices all week as a small token of our thanks and appreciation."

Watford Observer: Hertsmere mayor Anne Swerling, second left, pictured with fellow councillors and representatives from the Royal British LegionHertsmere mayor Anne Swerling, second left, pictured with fellow councillors and representatives from the Royal British Legion

Sir Mike Penning, Member of Parliament for Hemel Hempstead, attended Dacorum Borough Council’s ceremony at The Forum in Marlowes.

He was joined by council mayor Stewart Riddick and Major Bob Fisher, president of the Hemel Hempstead branch of the Royal British Legion, and South West Hertfordshire MP Gagan Mohindra.

Watford Observer: A ceremony in Hemel HempsteadA ceremony in Hemel Hempstead

Sir Mike, who joined the army as a boy soldier and served in the Grenadier Guards, said: "Sadly, this is the second year that we have been unable to hold an event in Gadebridge Park. However, it is as important as ever that show our appreciation for the work of the men and women who serve in our armed forces. 

"November 11 is the time pay our respects to those who have given their lives, but June 25 is for us to pay tribute to the armed forces, veterans and their families. 

"We have some of the best armed forces in the world, so it is only right that one day a year we come together to celebrate the work they do and be proud of them and the whole military wider family."