EIGHT-YEAR-OLD Roman Hurst from Pickering is shown a light machine gun by a soldier in York city centre as the city celebrates Armed Forces Day.

Soldiers from the 4th Battalion Yorkshire Regiment organised a range of activities for the family, demonstrations, music and information stands yesterday in Parliament Street before a week-long series of events comes to a close today.

City of York Council said that each year, the city comes together across the week to show support for the Armed Forces, serving personnel, veterans, cadets and their families.

"York has been home to armed forces since AD 71, when the first Garrison was established in the city," said a spokeswoman. "This means the city and the military has always held a strong bond, so this year seeks to be a continuation of this heart-felt appreciation of our Armed Forces personnel and veterans in the region.

"As part of the city-wide support for our Armed Forces, York’s Armed Forces Covenant describes how we’re practically working with organisations to support active and ex-service men, women and their families in our area."

Cllr Keith Aspden, Executive Member for Community Engagement and Armed Forces Champion, said: "We want this week of events and activities to draw together all ages to learn about, appreciate and celebrate the tremendous contribution that the Armed Forces make to our community.”

York City Knights are set to show their support at their home game against Newcastle today with a special Armed Forces Day afternoon including a minutes silence for those no longer with us.

Individuals holding a Ministry of Defence ID will receive complimentary entrance to the game, along with anyone accompanying them under the age of 16.