Celebrations for National Armed Forces Day started today, with flag raisings in Maidstone's Jubilee Square and in Argyle Road, Sevenoaks.

The National Armed Forces Day 'Show your Support' flag was raised at 10.15 this morning in Sevenoaks, and 10.30 in Maidstone.

Local dignitaries and members of the public attended the events.

Photos from the Maidstone Armed Forces Day flag raising in Jubilee Square

The Mayor of Maidstone, Councillor Derek Butler, said: "We can only enjoy the fruits of our industry and hard work if we are kept safe from our enemies. Sadly, it is more apparent now than ever before that there are groups who would like to destroy our western way of life.

"I am so pleased that so many of you are here today to recognise and record our appreciation of all the armed forces. By raising the Armed Forces Day flag, it shows our solidarity, respect, and thanks to the services who keep us safe."

The event in Maidstone's Jubilee Square was attended by Councillor Butler, Trevor Sturgess, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Major George Drysdale, second in command of 36 Engineer Regiment and Gurkha Major Buddhi Bahadur Bhandari, Queen's Gurkha Engineers.

Four Gurkhas performed a traditional dance, the Khukuri, and piper Corporal Sagar Gurung played while the flag was raised.

Steve Beerling, a Royal Navy War Pensioner, attended the day and was upset by how few people turned out to show their respects.

Despite the council making the event open to all, Mr Beerling, who lost his leg while serving, noted that he didn't see anyone there other than those directly involved in the celebration.

"I am an ex-councillor and I have always pushed, along with other members who are ex-service personnel, for people to turn out to events like this.

"I was disappointed not to see other ex-service personnel represented, I think it's a shame," he said.

Photos from the Sevenoaks Armed Forces Day event

The Sevenoaks event was hosted by the Sevenoaks District Council Chairman, Councillor Simon Raikes, and was attended by members of the Royal British Legion, Westerham Sea Cadets, and pupils from St John's C of E Primary School.

Councillor Raikes said: "Our armed forces is one of the institutions of which we can be particularly proud. There has rarely been a moment in recent history when they have not been putting themselves in harm's way to protect the interests of our people or those assisting those in need throughout the world.

"I am extremely proud of them and their professionalism and honoured to participate in the Armed Forces Day ceremony in Sevenoaks to recognise their extraordinary work."

Armed Forces Day is on Saturday, and there are a number of events in the local area to attend.

The Sutton Valence and District branch of the Royal British Legion will be celebrating on Saturday with a Picnic in the Park from 1pm-6pm at Sutton Valence Village Hall on North Street.

The Picnic in the Park will be both an indoor and outdoor event, with a tea party and entertainment provided throughout the day to keep both adults and children amused.

Other events taking place in the county include:

Sittingbourne's Armed Forces Day, which will take place on Sittingbourne High Street from 11am-4pm on Saturday, with locals celebrating with veterans and serving soldiers and cadets.

The event will include a variety of stalls, games, children's rides, and a tug of war competition. All profits from the event will be donated to the Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes.

Medway will also be celebrating Armed Forces Day at Great Lines Heritage Park on Brompton Road, Gillingham.

The event will run from 11am-5pm, and features over thirty acres of displays, concerts, activities, and rides.

Attractions at the Medway event include Gazelle helicopters, military boats and divers, historic military vehicles, a giant funfair, and stands run by charities and associations supporting the armed forces.

Other flag raising events in the county took place in Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, on Monday morning.