THE streets of Winchester were packed on Monday as Hampshire County Council joined the nation in raising the national Armed Forces Flag.

The flag-flying ceremony heralded the start of Armed Forces Week, which has become an annual event to raise awareness of the military and gives the community the opportunity to show their support for Her Majesty's Armed Forces.

While the week's events and celebrations culminate on Armed Forces Day on Saturday, the county council's work with the armed forces community continues on a daily basis throughout the year.

County council leader Ken Thornber said: "Hampshire has always been proud of its strong links with the armed forces."

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.