IT is a chance to show your support for the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day.

Military personnel and veterans will be out in force at special gatherings across Hampshire for this year’s Armed Forces Day.

Although the official date for the event is today Fawley Parish Council is planning a two day extravaganza at Gang Warily Leisure Centre. The show piece is a Battle of Britain Fly Over by a Dakota Aircraft, which will circle over the village at 8pm. From 10am onwards there will be military displays, live music, fair rides and food stalls.

Southampton City Council will sign a ‘community covenant’ with representatives from the Armed Forces with the aim of encouraging residents and org-anisations to support the service communities in their area.

Lt Col Rob Askew, Command-ing Officer 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC and Commander Solent Station, said: “We are encouraged by the willingness of councils within Solent Station to sign meaningful Community Covenants, which will promote mutual support and understanding within the local community.”