A PACKED programme of events will take place across Bolton to mark Armed Forces Week.

On Monday the Armed Forces flag was raised over the Town Hall and there was a short service in Victoria Square from 10.45am, attended by the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Lynda Byrne.

Further activities will take place in Victoria Square on Saturday, beginning with Bolton Sea Cadets raising its ensign flown from its mast head followed by a short service and a wreath laying ceremony led by Cllr Byrne.

It will be attended by the Duke of Lancaster Regiment; 216 Battery Bolton Artillery; Bolton United Services Veterans Association (established 1906); Royal British Legion, other veteran organisations and Bolton’s Combined Forces Cadets.

The day will include displays from the armed forces, cadets, and the Duke of Lancaster Regiment, and inter cadet challenges.

There will also be an Armed Forces Marketplace, live music throughout the day by local school bands, and stalls from charities and local history societies, including memorabilia and old photographs.

Bolton FM will facilitate a quiet zone for reflection and intergenerational discussions between veterans, serving forces and the public.

Meanwhile, Bolton Library and Museum Service will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme with displays.

The day will end with a short ceremony to lower the flag and closing speeches.

Councillor Lynda Byrne, Mayor of Bolton said: "I am looking forward to leading Bolton’s tribute to those who have served in the armed forces, both past and present and seeing all of Bolton represented."

Toby Carvery restaurants in Bolton will also be making the week with an invite for local armed forces personnel to enjoy a free roast dinner on Saturday.

The offer is open to all military personnel, from serving troops and reserves to veterans and cadets, and can be claimed by downloading a voucher and presenting this along with their military ID or veteran’s card.

Simon Evans, general manager at Toby Carvery Bolton, said: "Armed Forces Day is a brilliant opportunity to show our thanks for the work both serving and ex-military do for our country."

To download the voucher visit www.tobycarvery.co.uk.