BOROUGH Mayor Cllr Bill Cook raised the Armed Forces Day Flag at the council's Civic Offices today (Monday, 22 June).

The Mayor was joined by Cllr Richard Bingley, Leader of Thurrock Council, fellow councillors, Thurrock Council Cabinet members, MP Jen Craft, members of the Royal British Legion and Army Cadets and Grays Town Band, who played the national anthem as the flag was raised.

Cllr Cook said: "The men and women of the armed forces do a tremendous job keeping us safe and protecting the democracy and the values this country holds dear.

"Armed Forces Day also recognises the service and sacrifice of all who have served in the Army, Navy and Air Force. It was a great honour to raise a flag to recognise all that they have done, and continue to do."

The flag will fly all week, including on Armed Forces Day, Saturday 27 June.