People are being invited to join services on Friday 11 and Sunday 13 November for Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday commemorations.

Staffordshire has many war memorials, gardens and attractions, many of which will be hosting services over the weekend to honour those who lost their lives during the nation's wars.

This year's Armistice and Remembrance Sunday commemorations will once again be led by the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, with special services on both days. The Armistice Day service of remembrance at 11am on Friday 11 November will also be streamed live on the National Memorial Arboretum's YouTube channel and Facebook page. Further details are available at www.thenma.org.uk.

The Union Flag on top of the Shire hall building in Stafford will be lowered to half-mast during the two-minute silence taking place in the Market Square on Armistice Day on Friday 11 November.

Alan White, Leader at Staffordshire County Council said :"As a former soldier I know first-hand how important these commemorations are for both current serving and former personnel and their families.

"All who serve in our army, air force and navy protect our country, with honour, courage and commitment and it's vital we recognise and acknowledge the risks they take and sacrifices they make to keep us safe. Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day give us a great opportunity to honour and thank all those in or connected to our armed forces and I would urge people to try and find time to attend a service to pay tribute over the weekend.

"We continue to work with our partners to support our armed forces community, to help explain what they do, the significant role they play, and to encourage other organisations to pledge their support. Former service personnel and their families also bring with them significant skills and experience to Staffordshire. This benefits not only local businesses and communities but allows them to enjoy full and rewarding careers and lives in our great county."

Staffordshire County Council signed the Armed Forces Covenant in May 2012 and continues to support its armed forces communities. The covenant sets out how the county council is recognising, supporting and helping integrate its armed forces as a valued part of Staffordshire's communities.

Chairman of Staffordshire County Council, Cllr Paul Snape will be attending the Armistice Day Service at the National Memorial Arboretum On Friday And Stafford Borough Council's Remembrance Day Service & Parade on Sunday. The Vice-chairman (Phil Hewitt) will be attending an event in County Buildings in Stafford where he, and a representative from Unison, will lay wreaths in memory of those County Council employees who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars/