West Lancashire honoured the service and sacrifices made by our armed forces at a special event on Monday afternoon to commemorate Armed Forces Day.

The Ministry of Defence flag was raised - despite a last minute glitch - at the War Memorial in Coronation Park in Ormskirk.

The ceremony was attended by service veterans; Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire Mrs Gail Stanley; the Mayor of West Lancashire Councillor Neil Furey and Mayoress Julie Furey; Chief Executive of the Borough Council Kim Webber and Councillors from the Borough Council.

Local uniformed groups and people living and working locally were invited to come along and pay their respects, too.

Skelmersdale Prize Band performed from 4.45pm before the ceremony which officially started at 5pm when Father Michael Thompson, the Mayor’s Chaplain, recited a short prayer.

Mrs Stanley formally presented the flag to the Mayor of West Lancashire, who said: “We are honoured to receive this flag as a tribute to all our Armed Services, who have served in the past and are serving today.

"It is with pride that the Borough of West Lancashire shows its support by dedicating this moment to them.

"We trust that this ceremony will be remembered with warmth and affection by all men and women who are serving or have served the Colours.”

A veteran gave the following tribute: “Today, we have great pride in paying tribute to the men and women who defend Britain. We also remember the sacrifices made by the veterans of conflict. I hope that you will all join me in paying homage to our armed forces past and present who serve our country each day with pride and dignity.”

The flag was raised with the assistance of a cadet; the Prize Band played music as the flag was eventually raised, and the ceremony ended by 5.20pm.

Councillor Furey said: “It will be a great privilege for me to take part in this special ceremony as we pay tribute to veterans and those who are currently serving in our armed forces.”