The annual flag raising ceremony to celebrate the start of Armed Forces week has taken place at Oakham Castle.

A crowd well in excess of 100 people watched in the glorious morning sunshine today (Monday, June 24) as the flag was raised at precisely 10.15am.

A short ceremony saw speeches from the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Jeannette Warner, who said: "Throughout the year our armed forces defending the UK and its interests, working around the world, uniquely placed to eliminate threats and to offer humanitarian aid."

Rutland's new statue was also involved. Image credit: LDRS.

She added: "Here in Rutland it's been an incredibly busy twelve months, not least for the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade – the 'Desert Rats' – headquarters at Kendrew Barracks, who took command of NATOs rapid reaction force, placing thousands of soldiers on standby and at very high readiness.

"This year also marks the eightieth anniversary of D-Day, and earlier this month, on June 6, we remembered and publicly recognised the heroic achievements of a truly remarkable group of people – the D-Day veterans. The courage of those who fought so valiantly eighty years ago, lives on in the brave men and women who make up today's armed forces, and Armed Forces Week is about acknowledging this work.

Crowds paid tribute. Image credit: LDRS.

Conservative Cllr David Wilby, Armed Forces Champion for Rutland County Council, who had a long and distinguished career in the Royal Air Force, said: "I'm delighted to see such a large turnout today, especially our young guests from Catmose College in great numbers as I know that all your parents have either served, or are serving and your commitment is really important to us, so thank you."

Today's flag raising was just the start of a week of activities to mark Armed Forces Week.