WITH THE coronavirus continuing to make hosting outdoor events difficult, Wem will mark Armed Forces Day virtually this year.

Armed Forces Day has been held for the last 12 years on June 27 and in Wem is typically marked with a ceremony at the war memorial at Wem Parish Church.

But with social distancing restrictions still in full effect no service will take place this year, with Wem Town Council encouraging people to join in a virtual event.

A spokesman for Wem Town Council said: "Armed Forces Day is an annual opportunity for the UK public to celebrate the work of our Armed Forces.

"Saturday, June 27 will be the 12th annual Armed Forces Day but because of the current coronavirus pandemic the usual service around the war memorial at Wem Parish Church will not take place this year.

"This event will however be celebrated virtually on Armed Forces Day social channels with the public encouraged to show their support from their homes by joining a virtual event on the AFD social channels at armedforcesday.org.uk/event"

Meanwhile the event will marked by Ted Davies, president of the Wem branch of the Royal British Legion, who will stand to attention outside his home in Windmill Meadow.

Ted, who will be wearing his full military regalia and medals, is raising money for armed forces charities and will be present from 10am.

He said: "[Armed Forces Day] has been cancelled for all ceremonies and gatherings due to coronavirus.

"I am the president of the Wem branch of the Royal British Legion and I have decided to do something about it.

"I will be outside my home in my medals and full regalia to collect money for service charities from ten until I get fed up!"