The annual service is being held on Monday (June 24) at Allerdale Borough Council’s headquarters and will be led by Mayor of Allerdale, councillor Hilary Harrington.

The ceremony, which begins at 10.30am, starts Armed Forces Day celebrations which last throughout the week leading towards the official Armed Forces Day next Saturday (June 29). It will be one of a number of services taking part across the country.

Cllr Harrington will be joined by armed forces representatives and members of the public for a short flag-raising ceremony.

The event will feature a parade and involve local schoolchildren. The official Armed Forces Day flag will be raised by the mayor as a mark of respect to serving personnel and their families, veterans and the cadet forces.

Cllr Peter Little, council members' armed forces champion, encouraged as many people as possible to attend the service.

Cllr Little said: "I would urge everyone in the area to attend the Armed Forces Day events. They are a great way to pay your respects to the brave men and women who've served our country so well.

"Speaking as an ex-member of the armed forces myself, it means a great to current and former services personnel to see people to support these kind of events."

During the event representatives of the council will re-sign the Cumbrian Armed Forces Community Covenant, a commitment to giving fair support to members of the armed forces, veterans and their families while recognising and remembering the sacrifices they have made.

The covenant means that the council will offer recognition, consideration, help and support to the armed forces community, addressing issues such as housing, health care, welfare employment and help in the community. 

Any members of the public who wish to take part in Monday’s service are asked to arrive in the car park of Allerdale House at 10.15am.