THE Armed Forces Flag was lowered at Holy Trinity Church in Skipton on Saturday and presented to Harry Dowson, the Skipton Standard Bearer.

The socially distanced ceremony was organised by Craven District Council and the Royal British Legion late in the day to avoid crowds gathering.

Mr Dowson, 85, joined the Royal Air Force aged 17 and was posted to RAF Changi driving both domestic and crash ambulances. He has been a member of The Skipton Branch of the Royal British Legion since the early ‘60s after moving to Skipton and marrying his wife, Arlene. Since 1987 has carried the National Standard, missing only one parade during that time due to a ‘poorly leg’. He also spent some time as a committee meeting and he still has his committee badge.

George Martin, chairman of the Skipton RBL branch, said: “On behalf of Skipton, and Craven district, it is my pleasure, Harry, to invite you to receive this flag on behalf of the town. Thank you for your service to your country, to your town.”