RESIDENTS across the generations joined together to pay tribute to the work of Britain’s Armed Forces.

Veterans, civic dignitaries, serving soldiers and schoolchildren gathered in Darlington’s Market Square for a special service ahead of Armed Forces Day taking place on Saturday.

The address was made by Wing Commander Tony Cann and the event was complemented by a flyover by an RAF Hawk from Leeming.

Darlington’s Mayor Gerald Lee was joined at the service by several senior council figures including chief executive Ada Burns who said: “I think it is important to have the opportunity, particularly with young people, to thank and celebrate the work of the armed forces - the reservists, the standard forces, the retired and the veterans.

“It is important to bear in mind the sacrifices that our armed forces are making for us and that is why we are delighted as a local authority to support the event.”