Maldon District Council raised a special flag today to mark Emergency Services Day (Thursday, 9 September).

Councillor Mark Heard, chairman of the district council, was joined by Les Davis, the tri-service rural community officer, to mark the special occasion this morning at the council offices on Princes Road.

There was also a two minutes' silence at 9am, after the flag was raised, to honour the emergency services.

In a statement, the council encouraged residents to observe the two minutes' silence to "remember those who have been killed in the line of duty, as well as everyone who works tirelessly to make a difference in our communities".

Emergency Services Day annually celebrates the contributions - past and present - of those who have served in the emergency services in the UK.

It aims to show support for the fire service, NHS, ambulance services and the police.

In the Maldon district, this includes Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, Essex Police, East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust, RNLI and Maritime and Coastguard Agency.