Crowds are expected to gather across south Essex today to celebrate Armed Forces Day, honouring the dedication and sacrifice of the nation’s military personnel.

A series of events special across the county have been planned featuring parades, military displays and community activities, drawing a diverse crowd of veterans, families and residents.

Southend will mark Armed Forces Day between 10am and midday today with a colourful parade of serving Armed Forces personnel, veterans and cadets from about 10.30am.

The parade will make its way from the railway bridge to Victoria Circus, where there will be a service for the Armed Forces present with mayor, Ron Woodley, council and other dignitaries.

There will be a short concert from the Southend Band at the end of the service.

Southend residents are encouraged to come and pay their respects, and to celebrate Southend’s proud military history.

Matt Dent, Southend councillor responsible for culture, tourism, and business, said: “This is an event that Southend has always done incredibly well.

“We are very proud of our military heritage in Southend.

“I think it is important that it is celebrated and recognised for the sacrifices so many make and have made throughout the years to keep us safe.

“The event looks to be another brilliant display in Southend and I strongly urge anyone to come down for it.”

Basildon’s special Armed Forces event also be held today, starting at midday.

A parade made up of hundreds of serving personnel, service families, veterans and cadets, will march from Toys R Us in Basildon town centre towards St Martin’s Square.

Earlier in the week, Basildon mayor Allan Davies, raised a flag at the Basildon Centre to mark the start of a week of celebrations.

In Castle Point, there will be a procession on Canvey from 10.30am to 11am today.

It will start from Castle View School car park, turning left onto Foksville Road, before turning left onto Furtherwick Road, right onto Long Road, and left into the Paddocks Community Centre.

Armed Forces Day is a chance to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving personnel to service families, veterans and cadets.