RESIDENTS in west Cheshire are invited to show their support for the borough’s armed forces in a different way this year.

Armed Forces Week takes place from Monday, including Reserves Day on Wednesday and Armed Forces Day itself on Saturday, June 27.

In previous years there have been displays from reserve forces and armed forces charities throughout Cheshire, but the coronavirus pandemic has meant that many plans have had to change.

Celebrations are moving online instead, and residents are invited to share photos or videos of themselves, friends, family or colleagues saluting in tribute to the armed forces community for their work to keep us safe.

The Armed Forces Day flag will also be raised throughout the week at Brio’s Memorial Court Leisure Centre in Northwich, Wyvern House in Winsford and other locations across the borough.

Cllr Brian Jones, Cheshire West And Chester Council’s armed forces member champion, said: “We always mark Armed Forces Week to celebrate the outstanding contribution of these special people and their families to our country.

“That’s even more important now, at a time when our Armed Forces are playing such a vital part in tackling the spread of Covid-19.

“We might not be able to gather together in person this Armed Forces Week, but it would be great if as many people as possible could share their salute to show this community that we value them.”

You can post a video or photo of your salute and add a message of thanks via cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/inspire-cheshirewest

National Armed Forces Day organisers have put together videos on how to salute like service personnel, which can be found at armedforcesday.org.uk/get-involved/saluteourforces

The council also provides a range of support to the armed forces community through the Armed Forces Covenant. Details can be found at westcheshirearmedforcescovenant.co.uk