CIVIC and military leaders have joined volunteers to sign a covenant that aims to bring the civilian and Armed Forces communities together.

The Armed Forces Covenant has been launched by the Conservative government to officially recognise the sacrifices made by members of the military and their families.

As part of the national covenant each region can sign a community covenant, a voluntary statement of mutual support between civilians and the local Armed Forces community.

Supporters hope it will encourage local people to support the service community and promote understanding and awareness of issues affecting the Armed Forces community.

The North Yorkshire signing, which took place yesterday in Catterick Garrison, the largest army base in Europe, was attended by Councillor John Fort, chairman of North Yorkshire County Council.

He said: "The people of North Yorkshire owe a huge debt of gratitude to members of the Armed Forces who are prepared to put their lives at risk for the security of this country.

"We have worked very hard to meet the needs of the people and the military. North Yorkshire fully supports the community covenant."

Brigadier Greville Bibby, commander of 15 (North East ) Brigade, said: "There have been some real challenges for us but this community covenant is one of the most exciting developments in my 30 years of service and it is very much on the back of the Afghan factor," he said.

"This is one of the most important things I will do while commanding in the area. The trick now is to deliver and honour the covenant."

All signatories to the covenant have pledged to meet once a year to review the covenant and to upgrade and improve support and services when necessary.