HEXHAM turned out in force this weekend to recognise the contribution of serving troops, their families, veterans and cadets.

On Saturday the town centre stood still to celebrate national Armed Forces Day.

Headed by a marching band, the Fifth Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers marched its way along Battle Hill and Beaumont Street, supported by local cadets.

The troops, flanked by members of the Fusiliers Association, assembled in front of the war memorial for an inspection and address by Vice Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, Bryony Gibson and Mayor of Hexham. Coun. Trevor Cessford, with a reply from the Fifth Fusiliers Inspecting Officer.

There then followed a service of thanksgiving in Hexham Abbey.