SALISBURY is preparing to honour those who have served or are still serving their country in a special event being held in the Market Place today.

Armed Forces Day will pay tribute to members of the Armed Forces. The theme of this year’s event, which was first held in the city last year, is Armed Forces Past, Present and Future, and aims to focus on fun for all the family as well as marking the contributions of those serving in the forces.

The day’s events will begin with historic military vehicles driving around the Market Place, followed by a parade marching through the streets to finish in the market square at 11am when there will be a service with the mayor’s chaplain and the padre of the 4th Battlian the Rifles.

The free event, funded by Salisbury City Council and the Ministry of Defence, will include shows by singer Rosemary Squires, the Army Air Corps Band, two local schools, Salisbury Community Choir, the Fijian Choir from the Rifles, and other local performers.

There will be craft and food stalls in the Market Place from 10am, and a Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will fly over the centre of the city at about 1.30pm.

Chairman of the Armed Forces committee Ian McGill said: “A huge amount of work has gone into this event in order to provide a day which strengthens the bonds between Salisbury and our Armed Forces and to honour all servicemen and women, past, present and future.

“I hope as many people as possible turn up and thoroughly enjoy the day.”

Stands in the Market Place will remain open until 4pm and the end of the day will be marked with a flag lowering ceremony at 4pm.

A special souvenir brochure has been issued, sponsored by QinetiQ, which is now available from Salisbury Tourist Information Centre in Fish Row.