CELEBRATIONS for this weekend's Armed Forces Day began with a flag raising ceremony in Glasgow.

Lord Provost Sadie Docherty, who will lead Saturday's celebrations, was on hand to watch the raising of the specially commissioned Armed Forces Day Flag.

The flag is based on the Union Flag and similar ceremonies were held simultaneously in towns and cities across Britain

The Lord Provost was joined by Lieutenant Colonel Andy Bruce, Commander Andrew Cowan and Squadron Leader Archie McCallum representing the Army, Navy and Royal Air Force respectively, as well as councillors and council officials.

Armed Forces Day will involve a parade in George Square, led by the Royal Marine Band Scotland, followed by serving Navy, Army and RAF personnel, as well as cadets from all three services and veterans.

On the day there will also be a flypast by a pair of Typhoon jets as well as musical entertainment from the Swing Sensation and the Kennedy Cupcakes.

Rear Admiral, Lieutenant Peter Heselton, of the Royal Navy, who will attend the Glasgow celebrations, said: "I am honoured to have been invited by Glasgow City Council.

"The Armed Forces Day service is a particularly special occasion for all our servicemen and women, full time and reserve, serving or retired, as it is an event organised by communities to show support for our sailors, marines, soldiers and airmen and the work which they do on behalf of our country around the world.

"We appreciate the honour which Glasgow has bestowed on us with this special service and continue to thank the public for their unstinting and fond support."

Other attractions in the square on Saturday will include the city's speedway team, the Glasgow Tigers, the Cumbrian Pipe Band and military exhibits, including a Jackal armoured carrier and vintage Jeeps.

There will also be a climbing wall and an inflatable assault course as well as stands and stalls.

Mrs Docherty said: "I am looking forward to Armed Forces Day and the opportunity to meet veterans and serving military at our special celebration in George Square."

matty.sutton@ eveningtimes.co.uk