WELL-WISHERS turned out to pay tribute to brave service men and women during an Armed Forces Day parade in Worcestershire yesterday.

In Sunday’s glorious sunshine, visitors to Pershore watched as the three Royal British Legion’s counties of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire held their annual rally.

Smartly turned-out, the event included 50 standard bearers, 70 veterans and 11 cadets who proudly marched through the streets.

The parade, which started in Pershore’s main car park, was led by the Birmingham Fire Service Band, who marched to Pershore Abbey with three lord lieutenants and public dignitaries. The service at the abbey lasted for about an hour before the parade returned along the streets, stopping outside the new town hall to re-dedicate the town’s clock.

Jeff King, Worcestershire chairman of the Royal British Legion and co-coordinator of the day, said: “The day is for those who are currently serving in Afghanistan and Iraq, along with those who have served in the past. It is not just those who have served, but for those who are serving their country now. Some have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country and it is important that they are remembered.”

Standard bearer Brian Lyes of Dumbleton said: “It’s important for us to show what the RBL does.”

Fred Williams, of Sedgeberrow RBL, said: “It is great that the sun is shining.”

He hoped it would encourage people to support the British legion.