Liverpool marks Armed Forces Day with service and parade

A service to mark national Armed Forces Day has taken place in Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral.

The Band of the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment played at the service, which began at 11:00 BST.

Army veterans then joined present serving military and cadets to march along Hope Street.

In St Helens, ex-service veterans and organisations met at the Cenotaph in Victoria Square at 12:00 to pay tribute to the armed forces.

Among those paying tribute were the Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, Geoff and Jean Almond, and leader of the council Marie Rimmer.

The service was preceded by a parade from the Hardshaw Street side of the Town Hall at 11:50 BST.

Events are also taking place across the UK, including a parade in Plymouth, a march by veterans in London, and flypasts in several towns and cities.

Speaking about the service in Liverpool, Lord Mayor Sharon Sullivan said: "Armed Forces Day is time for the city to join together to honour all military personnel, past and present for their commitment and bravery in helping to make the world a safer place to live.

"Liverpool has always had strong links with all military organisations which has been acknowledged and rewarded over the years and I hope we will continue to recognise their selfless dedication to the armed forces."