BUGLERS from 1 Rifles and Sedbury soldier Kyle Baker from 3 Rifles, who was wounded in Afghan­is­tan, attended Forest of Dean District Council's Armed Forces Day ceremony.

The Armed Forces Day flag was raised outside the council's Coleford headquarters on Monday morning in a ceremony well-attended by councillors, council staff and members of the public.

Council chairman Cllr Marrilyn Smart said: "I am sure that at the moment many of us are thinking about a particular group of people currently deployed overseas – the England football squad.

"During this World Cup campaign this council will indeed show its support for the team by flying the cross of St George despite disappointing results so far.

"But for this week I'd like us all to think about a bigger and less well paid team that regularly takes enormous risks on behalf of their country. Tragically some members of that team make the ultimate sacrifice.

"In this run up to Armed Forces Day on Saturday, this council will show its support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community – that includes those who are currently serving, their families, veterans and cadets."

She added: "Of course, I would like to make a special mention of 1 Rifles who are part of our own Forest of Dean community. I am delighted that we are joined this morning by five buglers from the Battalion and Rifleman Kyle Baker and his family. 

"Kyle was sadly injured in Afghanistan but is making a good recovery from his injuries. We also acknowledge the tremendous efforts, achievements and the sacrifices made by the Rifles Regiment."

•Chairman of Monmouthshire County Council Peter Clarke raised a specially designed flag at County Hall, Cwmbran which will remain until the passing of Armed Forces Day on Saturday.  Accompanying Councillor Clarke were Murray Kerr representing the Lord Lieutenant of Gwent, members of the Royal British Legion and county councillors and staff.

There were also ceremonies in Chepstow and other towns.