A TRIBUTE to troops was flown high above Colchester town hall to mark Armed Forces Day.

Colchester Council raised the Armed Forces Day flag alongside the Pegasus flag of 16 Air Assault Brigade to the sound of a bugler.

The usual week-long celebration is now being adapted to be held virtually

Deputy mayor Robert Davidson, led the ceremony with deputy mayoress Liz Davidson, the Garrison’s deputy chief of staff Maj Huw Thomas and Garrison Sgt Maj Andy Lamont.

Before the ceremony began, participants observed a two minute's silence for the victims of Saturday’s attack in Reading.

Mr Davidson, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has affected every part of our community and how we would wish to celebrate events such as this.

"It therefore gives me immense pride that our plans to raise the flag were not thwarted but just arranged a little differently this year.

“The raising of the flag gives us the opportunity to thank the military community who have devoted their lives to protecting our nation. I offer my respect, admiration and gratitude to our service personnel and their families, and the veterans and cadets who make up the armed forces community and offer Colchester’s enduring commitment of support to you all.”

Maj Thomas added: “Colchester Garrison is hugely proud of the close and longstanding bond that exists between the military and civilian communities in Colchester - a relationship that it is ever more important as we face the challenge of coronavirus together.”

Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) which runs mental health services offers help to veterans year-round with their transition, liaison and intervention service and are running a special campaign throughout this week.

If you or someone you know is struggling you can contact the service by calling 0300 323 0137 or email mevs.mhm@nhs.net.