FAMILIES and friends of servicemen are encouraging neighbours to turn their town yellow.

Carterton, home to airmen based at RAF Brize Norton, will become a sea of yellow ribbons, as part of a week of awareness for members of the Armed Forces.

But, unlike the words of the old song, the people of Carterton will not just be tying their yellow ribbons round the old oak tree. They will also be fluttering from buildings, fences, and lampposts.

The event, organised by the Carterton-based Yellow Ribbon Foundation, takes place on Saturday.

It kick starts the organisation's Yellow Ribbon For The Forces Week - which raises awareness of welfare support for families of those serving with the Forces.

Other events include a big yellow balloon race on Friday, March 30, at which up to 1,500 helium-filled balloons will be released from Carterton. The event will be started by Witney MP David Cameron.

Funds raised during the week will be split between the foundation and the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, at Headley Court, in Surrey.

The Yellow Ribbon Foundation was set up to provide information to the families of those serving with the armed forces.

Supporters of the foundation are also being encouraged to hold their own fundraising events.

The foundation's director Victoria Evans said: "This is the first time a week has been devoted to supporting the Armed Forces in a non-political manner.

"Many relatives of people serving with the Armed Forces feel cut off. We help get people in touch with the welfare services and improve the access they have to information.

"When someone is going away, it is hard to keep in touch. There is a minefield of restrictions, and it can be stressful for families. Through events like this, we are showing non-political support for the Armed Forces.

"The ribbon symbolises awareness, thankfulness, and remembrance."

Mrs Evans, whose husband is an airman based at RAF Brize Norton, added: "We are hoping to encourage people not only in the UK, but also in places overseas, where we have a long-term military presence, to hold events to help raise money."

* For information about holding your own event, please contact The Yellow Ribbon Foundation, on 01993 201626.