MEMBERS of the community turned out to show their support for Clackmannanshire’s Armed Forces Day last week.

The event on Wednesday (3 June) was held to honour the extraordinary men and woman who have made an outstanding contribution to society by serving in the armed forces.

There was a parade through the town before the crowds gathered to watch the flag raising ceremony at Alloa Town Hall.

The Lt Col (Retd) Johnny Stewart and Provost of Clackmannanshire Tina Murphy were among those who attended.

Provost Murphy said: “I was so pleased with the turn out for our Armed Forces Day event last week.

“An enormous amount of work was done by our officers to involve all that marched in the parade, a fitting tribute to our armed forces past and present.

“My thanks to all that made the day so special. Especially members of the public and all the children who lined the street.

“It was a proud day for Clackmannanshire and a chance for us all to demonstrate our gratitude to all our service personnel.” The parade set off from Drysdale Street and included veterans and members of the Royal British Legion of Scotland Clackmannanshire and District.

They were joined by more than 100 local army and air cadets of the 383 Squadron of the Air Training Corps and Cadets of the Clackmannan Company of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, the Royal Regiment of Scotland and Dollar Combined Cadet Force and The Royal Regiment of Scotland’s mascot, Cruachan IV, a three-year-old Shetland pony.

Dollar Pipes and Drums, which also gave a musical performance on the High Street, led the way and the parade formed up for inspection at the town hall.

Following the flag raising ceremony, a civic reception was held for invited guests.

Robert Hunter, branch secretary of the Royal British Legion of Scotland Clackmannanshire and District, said: “My own view on the Armed Forces Day parade organised by the council is that I feel it has been the most successful Armed Forces Day parade to date.

“I would like to say thank you to the organisers that laid on the day, from the veterans point of view it was a great success and we all appreciate the hard work that went into setting out the day. This lays down a great bench mark and we hope the next is as every bit as good.”