Rutland County Council is reminding residents to get involved with Armed Forces Week - held each year to acknowledge and support current and retired armed forces personnel in our area.

The week of special events and activities begins with the Flag Raising Ceremony at Oakham Castle on Monday, 24 June.

Commemorations will begin at 10.20am with opening addresses by The Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness, Rutland County Council Chairman Cllr Kenneth Bool and Armed Forces Champion Councillor Ian Razzell.

The Armed Forces Flag will be raised at 10.30am by a party from 7 Regiment The Royal Logistics Corps, currently based at Kendrew Barracks in Cottesmore.

Rutland County Council is encouraging people to attend Rutland's Armed Forces flag raising event as well as promoting other regional events taking place nearby on Armed Forces Day on Saturday, 29 June.

The armed forces community comprises more than 15 percent of the population in Rutland, with reserve forces accounting for approximately one sixth of this.

Rutland's newest Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Ian Razzell, rose to the rank of Warrant Officer Class 1 (Regimental Sergeant Major) and spent 10 years as a Commissioned Officer during a 32-year military career.

He says: "The armed forces provide an incredible service in often difficult and dangerous circumstances. Our veterans have dedicated their lives to serving us and form an invaluable link between Rutland's armed forces and civilian communities.

"As a retired serviceman, I know the huge morale boost that public support can provide to armed forces personnel and their families, so I hope as many people as possible are able to attend the wonderful week of celebrations and activities we have lined up.

"Businesses can also get involved. Whether you're a large organisation, small company, charity or self-employed, celebrate Reserves Day on 26 June by publicly showing your support or holding a workplace talk or event.

"The reserves have always played an essential role in our armed forces and, through their dedication and professionalism, make a vital contribution to protecting the nation's security at home and abroad."

Rutland has a long history of supporting armed forces families and personnel stationed in the county.

Last year Rutland County Council resigned the national Armed Forces Covenant, a promise to do everything possible to provide help, advice and support to members of the armed forces community.

The council also oversees Rutland's Armed Forces Discount Scheme, which provides discounts on goods and services to all personnel living in the area, including veterans.

For more information about Rutland's Armed Forces Week click on the red button below.