People from Staffordshire are being invited to show their support for the Armed Forces community, as the county prepares to celebrate Armed Forces Day on Saturday 26 June.

The National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire will lead the nation's commemorations with a special outdoor celebration and service on the day, and a weekend of family activities and a food and craft fair.

Some Covid-19 restrictions still remain in place and booking is essential and can be done through their website.

People are also being encouraged to join the #saluteourforces campaign by uploading a selfie of themselves saluting.

Staffordshire County Council will be flying the Armed Forces flag from Shire Hall in Stafford over the weekend.

Paul Snape, Chairman of Staffordshire County Council said: "Armed Forces Day is the annual opportunity for us all to come together to recognise the dedication and work of our armed forces communities.

"This means paying tribute to regular and reservist soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, past and present, and the families that have supported them in turn.

"Over the last eighteen months we also saw many members of the armed forces stepping up in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, helping with testing and roll out of the vaccine.

"We will be proudly flying the Armed Forces flag to show our support and I would encourage people to take a few moments to reflect on the work they do to keep us all safe both home and abroad."

Alan White, Leader of Staffordshire County Council added: "As a big supporter of the forces I hope people will join the county council in showing our support for the brave men and women who make up our Armed Forces community.

"Staffordshire has always had a long and proud history with the armed forces.

"Our county town of Stafford is a hub for three Signals regiments and in Lichfield armed forces medics continue to be trained at the Defence Medical Services at Whittington Barracks.

"With an increasing number of military personnel in the county, it's vital that we continue to support our Armed Forces and their families in whatever way we can.

"Please join us and take some time over the weekend to show you're support for them."