The East Devon District Council has signed the Armed Forces Covenant.

The initiative ensures fair treatment for Armed Forces members, veterans, and their families.

The covenant was signed on September 10 by Councillor Paul Arnott and Major Mark Latham RM, as part of the council's 50th-anniversary celebrations.

Councillor Vicky Johns, the council's Armed Forces Champion, said: "I feel as a nation, our serving personnel have been overlooked for far too long and the signing of this Armed Forces Covenant goes a small way to ensure they are no longer overlooked."

East Devon hosts the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre in Lympstone, with many residents serving as personnel, veterans, or are part of the military family.

The event was attended by council officers, current and former councillors, and Armed Forces members, reflecting the council's appreciation for their community contribution.

A plaque was unveiled at the Blackdown House council headquarters in Honiton, and a tree was planted at the nearby Business Centre to commemorate the council's 50th anniversary.

Councillor Eleanor Rylance, chair of the council, and Chris Snow CBE, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant, Vice Lord-Lieutenant, and Rear Admiral, led these commemorations.

The occasion highlighted the council's recognition of the Armed Forces community's contribution to East Devon and the country.

The covenant's signing and the anniversary celebrations mark a significant milestone for East Devon District Council, underlining its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community and recognising their invaluable contribution to the area.