PEOPLE flocked to an area of Cwmbran last week to commemorate the annual Armed Forces Day.

Cwmbran Community Council held the public ceremony on Wednesday, June 27.

The ceremony took place in Old Cwmbran, with more than 200 people attending.

There were words of welcome from council chairman, Councillor Peter Cathcart and a poem by ‘Woodbine Willie’.

This was followed by an opening prayer from Canon John Griffiths, a reading in welsh read by pupils from Ysgol Gymraeg Cwmbran and a reflection from Reverend Frieda Evans.

Many military organisations were able to attend and helped to raise the flags.

Cllr Peter Cathcart said: “The ceremony to commemorate Armed Forces Day provides an opportunity to raise public awareness of the contribution made to those who serve and have served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.

“The police supported the event and we were grateful to the children from Our Lady of the Angels Primary School, who helped commemorate the day by performing a hymn.

“We were extremely grateful to The Salvation Army who were able to support the event, once again.”

Old Cwmbran resident Michael Coot was one of many to attend the event.

He said: “Armed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community.

“I served in the Armed Forces made years ago.

“They put their lives on the line for our safety. We need to acknowledge all that they do.”

Kathryn Jones, who lives in Cocker Avenue, said she attended the event to pay tribute to her son who is serving in the army.

"I do not think people understand everything that they do," said the 50-year-old.

"They regularly put their lives on the line to keep us safe.

"Armed Forces Day gives everyone the opportunity to thank and learn more about what life is like serving for your country."

She added: "I think it is brilliant that so many people turned out for the event.