Cornwall and Devon's servicemen and women are honoured.

Plymouth is hosting the UK's Armed Forces Day.

A string of events is planned across the city to celebrate.

Keith Naylor from the Duchy's British Legion says it is a chance to meet our local heroes.

"Go back to post the second world war, virtually every family had some direct connection with someone that was serving in the armed forces. This is a golden opportunity for a large group of people to meet face to face and say we're really grateful for what you do for us"

He says it is important for our troops to feel connected too:

"They'll join their regiment, go away, do their tour, come back and think 'Well OK, I've been out there for a six month tour enduring conditions that the average civilian would have no concept of what that was all about"

Towns and cities across the country will be hoisting flags to mark Armed Forces Day but the spotlight is on Plymouth this year as it has been chosen to host the UK's main celebrations on Saturday.

There will be a packed day of family entertainment and spectacular displays on the Hoe, followed by evening entertainment on the Barbican. HRH The Earl of Wessex is attending the event and will take the salute in one of the biggest military parades hosted by the city in recent years.

The day will also include an exciting field gun competition between Devonport Naval Base and HMS Raleigh, a 'steampast' of ships out in Plymouth Sound, a live performance by the Military Wives Choir with the Royal Marines Band and an hour-long air show, featuring the Red Arrows.

For full details go to   www.plymouth.gov.uk/armedforcesweek.