Suddenly

I was just walking through the market square of Carlisle from the hairdresser, when I suddenly came upon this. I stopped to see what was going on.

There was a gathering of local dignitaries, Army people and photographers. A blessing was given, a flag was raised, the National Anthem was sort of sung and then they all marched off for refreshments. Shoppers stopped and watched or walked on quite oblivious.
 
Apparently it is National Armed Forces Day on the 24th and Carlisle has a Flag Raising Ceremony the week before. This was it.
  
(Not the day to be wearing all those suits and uniforms – it has been so hot.)