APPLAUDING crowds have lined the streets of York during a military parade to mark Armed Forces Day.

Yesterday's event, intended to raise public awareness and highlight the outstanding contribution made by those who serve in the forces, started with a Royal British Legion service at All Saint's Church in Pavement.

That was followed by a march led by the band of the Yorkshire Regiment and including members of the legion, servicemen from Imphal Barracks and cadets.

The parade wound its way down High Ousegate, Spurriergate and Coney Street, through St Helen's Square and along Davygate, where the salute was taken by the civic party.

The parade concluded in Parliament Street, where activities and entertainment included an army climbing wall for youngsters, and stalls manned by organisations including the York Military Wives Choir and the RAF Association.