WILTSHIRE residents are being given the opportunity to show their support for the armed forces and emergency services.

Four trees will be planted at Trowbridge’s war memorial on Friday to pay tribute to servicemen and women who have died whilst serving their country, and to honour those who continue to serve.

There will be plaques beside each tree dedicated to the police, fire and rescue, ambulance and military services.

The dedications will be led by armed forces padre Lt Col Andrew Lloyd and there will also be a dedication to the Territorial Army and the launch of this year’s Royal British Legion poppy appeal.

The trees will be part of the national Living Tribute Trail, which was devised by Purple Salute. The organisation’s aim is to encourage people to be aware of the role that our military and emergency services play in everyday life and to plant a living tribute tree in every town and city in the country.

Wiltshire Council is the main sponsor and is cleaning the war memorial in preparation for the event.

Council leader Jane Scott said: “We are delighted to be supporting this living tribute. I hope that every time people see these trees they will be reminded of the courage of those who put their country first.”

To find out more about Purple Salute, visit www.purplesalute.org.