CELEBRATIONS for Armed Forces Day have officially kicked off in Worcester - with the flag being raised above the Guildhall.

Military personnel joined the Mayor of Worcester Councillor Roger Knight, city MP Robin Walker and other civic leaders to observe the flag raising this morning.

Armed Forces Day takes place this Saturday, but flags were raised on famous landmarks around the country yesterday as a mark of respect.

Councillor Knight said: "Armed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the forces community.

"We've raised the flag over the Guildhall as a sign of thanks and respect, and to help boost morale for the troops and their families based in Worcester."

Veterans from the Worcestershire Regiment and Royal Engineers Association were also on hand for the event yesterday.

It comes as excitement is building in the city over the Queen's Royal Hussars' historic march through the city centre this Saturday.

The right to do so was handed to them last year when they were awarded the Freedom of the City.

Around 200 soldiers will march through the city centre from 11am with swords drawn, bayonets fixed, drums beating and guidon flying, followed by an afternoon of family fun at Worcester Racecourse from 12.30pm.

* To see details of the exact route and a map of it, click HERE.