Members of the public turned out in droves for a civic service and wreath laying outside a St Albans church last Saturday to mark Armed Forces Day.

The service at the memorial outside St Mary’s Church in Marshalswick was conducted by the Rev Ruth Goatly and prayers were offered for the contribution made by members of the armed forces in serving their country.

The Mayor of St Albans, Cllr Geoff Harrision, joined representatives of the Royal British Legion (RBL), the Burma Star Association, the Royal Air Force Association and Sandridge parish council. Standards were carried on behalf of the Normandy Veterans Association, RAF air cadets, Army cadets, the Guide Association and the RBL.

The Mayor said: “It was a privilege to join with cadets from the Army and Royal Air Force and local people to show support for our Armed Forces and their families.

The service was followed in the evening by the D-Day anniversary concert at the Alban Arena (see page 39).

Don Dell, branch chairman of the St Albans branch of the RBL who was at both events, said: “We were blessed because we managed to avoid getting wet despite torrential downpours. The evening concert was an emotional event and it was good to see future generations on stage.”

The RBL is holding a table top sale with crafts at its headquarters in Verulam Road, St Albans, from 10am next Saturday, July 12. Admission is free and a limited number of tables are still available at £15 or £10 for charities. For more information contact Don on 07747467836.