Hundreds of people have gathered in Lowestoft to show support for the men and women who make up the armed forces.

Eastern Daily Press: The Royal Marine Band Collingwood perform at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick HowesThe Royal Marine Band Collingwood perform at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

Honouring the bravery of service personnel in the past and present, and for those looking to serve in Britain's armed forces in the future, the 12th annual Lowestoft Armed Forces Day Military Tattoo has seen the town pay a fitting tribute.

The courageous men and women who have risked – and lost – their lives for their country were thanked and remembered at the Royal Green in Lowestoft today.

Eastern Daily Press: Military vehicles on display at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick HowesMilitary vehicles on display at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

Veterans, families and serving troops all came together as part of an Armed Forces Day celebration in Lowestoft, with hundreds turning out to give thanks to all military personnel.

Numerous activities, stands, demonstrations and displays have transformed Royal Green – and the displays and performances are due to continue this afternoon

Eastern Daily Press: The Drumhead Service at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick HowesThe Drumhead Service at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

Among the arena acts this afternoon there will be performances from the Norwich Pipe Band and the band of HM Royal Marines Collingwood once more, ahead of a scheduled parade and finale at 3.15pm.

Earlier this morning the Band of HM Royal Marines Collingwood performed on Royal Green for the first-ever time as part of the town's commemoration – with event organisers 'thrilled' with this 'must-see performance.'

Eastern Daily Press: The Drumhead Service at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick HowesThe Drumhead Service at Lowestoft's Armed Forces Day. Pictures: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

With a special parade and traditional Drumhead Service of remembrance conducted by the Rev Michael Asquith at noon, the successful event has already attracted a fine turnout.

And delighted with how the day had gone, Victoria Schofield from the Lowestoft Armed Forces Day committee who all volunteer to organise the event, said: 'Thrilled is an understatement. To have the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Collingwood to perform in Lowestoft is out of this world.'