Young and old gathered to pay tribute to Servicemen and women ahead of this Saturday’s Armed Forces Day.

On Monday, people gathered in Community Square, Gravesend, for a flag-raising ceremony.

Gravesham Mayor Derek Sales began proceedings and the Rev Chris Stone, canon of St George’s Church, Gravesend, led the prayers.

There was music by the Salvation Army Band, including God Save the Queen, before the Standards were raised.

Cllr Sales said: “Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for the nation to show its support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community, serving troops and their families, those who have retired and cadets. We’re proud once more to be taking part in this flag raising event.”

Mr Stone said: “I think of Armed Forces Day as an opportunity to remember the contribution that members of the armed forces give to the life of this nation and our borough.

The ceremony ended with three cheers for the armed forces and the flags will remain up in Community Square for the rest of the week.

In Greenhithe, the Royal British Legion in London Road will be holding an event from 1pm.

The Copperfield Crown Carvery, in Gravesend Road, Gravesend, is marking Armed Forces Day by treating all Army, Navy and Air Force men and women, past and present, to a free full English breakfast or carvery until the close of business on Saturday.

Visit www.crowncarveries.co.uk or www.facebook.com/crowncarveries to download the Free Forces Meal voucher and present it along with your current ID card, or veteran lapel badge, to staff at the restaurant.

For more, see this week's Gravesend Messenger, out tomorrow.