PEOPLE in Alcester and Redditch took to the streets on the weekend to celebrate our country's servicemen and women for Armed Forces Day.

Redditch Royal British Legion led a parade from Ollie's Eatery near Redditch Town Hall to St Stephen's Church for a poignant service.

The Deputy Lord Lieutenant Professor Michael Clarke, Redditch Mayor Jenny Wheeler, new MP Rachel Maclean, and West Midlands MEP James Carver all laid wreaths at the memorial.

Flowing the parade, a reception was held at the town hall for the veterans, Armed Forces and their families and the Royal British Legion.

It was organised by council leader Bill Hartnett.

He said: "I would like to thank the residents who baked cakes for the reception. This was a chance for the people of Redditch to come out and show their support for the Armed Forces which they did in great numbers.

"It was a great day which was very well supported by the general public."

In Alcester more than 100 people attended the Armed Forces Day ceremony on the St Nicholas Church green, including several World War Two veterans.

The official flag was raised by Alcester mayor Yvette Morrison, the legion's chaplain Reverend Jim Symonds and retired major Bob Woodfield.

The branch chairman Mike Gittus in his address gave special thanks to all of the Armed Forces which he said have been keeping the country safe at home during recent difficult times.

He added: "We celebrate our Armed Forces, past present and future. Today, Alcester salutes them for their dedication."

After the flag raising ceremony the legion held its annual garden party. The day raised £300 for Alcester Legion funds.