Scotland's Armed Forces celebration gets underway

The capital is the host city for tomorrow's third annual UK Armed Forces Day, dedicated to the nation's servicemen and women.

Up to 100,000 people are expected to descend upon the city from now until Sunday to enjoy a packed programme of activities.

Events beginning earlier today centred around the Royal Navy ship HMS Portland, which will be berthed at Edinburgh's Leith Docks for the weekend.

Members of the public are being given the chance to tour the Type 23 frigate while other events are also being staged in the area.

Visitors to the ship have been able to see performances by the likes of the Flying Gunners motorcycle display team and the Royal Marine Band.

A Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokeswoman said thousands of visitors have already turned out to see the ship and other events taking place around Ocean Terminal and the quayside.

Later on this evening, the Red Arrows will perform a 24-minute aerial display over the Firth of Forth, their first performance in the city for 23 years.

This weekend's events will be attended by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, as well as First Minister Alex Salmond and TV presenter Lorraine Kelly, who launched the programme last week.

Street parties and parades are also expected in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Tomorrow, Charles and Camilla, known as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay when they visit Scotland, will watch the main Royal Mile parade as 2,500 military personnel, both veterans and cadets, march from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Park.

Defence Secretary Liam Fox said: "Armed Forces Day provides a unique opportunity for us all to pay thanks to the men and women who serve this country with such distinction.

"I would especially like to thank the City of Edinburgh for hosting this national event. The city has a long and proud military history, and provides the perfect setting for us all to say 'Thank you' to our Armed Forces."

George Grubb, Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, said: "This weekend promises to be very special, with plenty of exciting and fun events for everyone, whether it's the spectacular sight of 2,500 veterans and Armed Forces personnel marching down the Royal Mile, the Red Arrows displays or all the family fun and military activities in Holyrood Park."

General Sir David Richards said: "As the Chief of the Defence Staff, I see at first hand the jobs that the men and women of the Armed Forces do, and I can assure you that the recognition and thanks given by the people in communities such as yours on Armed Forces Day goes a long way to keep morale at a high level."

The makers of Captain Morgan's rum, who are offering a free drink to every serving member of the Navy, earlier joined crew members aboard HMS Portland.

Russell Jones, of Diageo, said: "Armed Forces Day is an important moment for all of us up and down the country."