THEY came to pay tribute to those who risk their lives for their country.

Hundreds of people watched on as a military parade and flag raising ceremony brought Winchester to a standstill.

Personnel from the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force took part in the annual flag raising ceremony and parade, which was organised to promote Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

The parade went from the bottom of the High Street near Debenhams, past The Westgate and ended outside the Great Hall, where crowds gathered waving Union Jack flags.

Cadet Sophie Groves, 18, raised the flag.

Acting Dean of Winchester Cathedral, the Rev Canon Roly Riem, led a prayer and the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkinson spoke of the importance of supporting the armed forces.

He said: “All over Hampshire flags will be raised in honour and support of our armed forces both past veterans and present servicemen and women. These flags remind us of the debt of gratitude we owe to them all."

Other dignitaries who attended included leader of Hampshire County Council Cllr Roy Perry, chairman of Hampshire County Council Cllr Keith Chapman, Mayor of Winchester Cllr Jane Rutter and the county council’s armed forces champion Cllr Andrew Joy.

Flags were flown at half mast until the evening following the tragic death of MP Jo Cox. One of the missing dignitaries was Romsey and Southampton North MP Caroline Nokes and Winchester MP Steve Brine who were paying tribute to their former colleague in the House of Commons.

Cllr Joy said: “There are well over 20,000 military personnel based in Hampshire, the largest number in any county, and we place enormous value on our long and close relationship with the armed forces. 

“We are committed to supporting our armed forces community, including regulars, reservists, veterans and their families. 

"Through the Military Covenant, which Hampshire was one of the first to sign, around £2million in grants has been secured to date for over 50 projects across the county, which benefit service families and the wider local community. 

"We have always been proud of our long association with the armed services and we are proud to be able to honour the commitment and sacrifices they make for the security and wellbeing of our country.”