A FLAG was hoisted at Oxford Castle as a mark of pride and gratitude for the county's military community.

Oxfordshire County Council held flag-raising a ceremony at the landmark on Monday, ahead of Armed Forces Day celebrations on Friday.

The annual day pays tribute to the service of men and women in the British Armed Forces, from troops currently on operations to cadets, veterans and families of people in the services.

Civic leaders and serving military personnel watched on as the flag was pulled to the top of a pole in the courtyard.