Mr Armfield, a deputy lieutenant of Lancashire who did two years national service, arrived at Blackpool Town Hall in a huge Stormer military vehicle before meeting ex-servicemen and the Mayor, Coun Norman Hardy.

Standard bearers then raised flags while the Armed Forces and Veterans Week flag was hoisted high.

Mr Armfield said: "I feel very proud to have presented the flag on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

"It was incredible to see inside the Stormer vehicle. I have never been in one before and it's amazing how tight they are inside."

The state-of-the-art vehicle, driven by members of the 12th Regiment the Royal Artilery, which has the freedom of Blackpool, is used in Afghanistan and Iraq and is equipped with anti-aircraft weaponry.

Sgt Chris Bracegirdle and driver, Bombardier Darren Harding, were delighted to have a football legend on board.

"It was great. He told me a few of his war stories," Bombardier Harding said.

Sgt Bracegirdle added: "He was saying during his service they used to call him 'the footballer'.

"He was really nice bloke.

"We're delighted to be here in Blackpool and be able to show a bit of presence and help people understand more about the armed forces and what we do."

The special ceremony was the start of the events taking place throughout this week to honour veterans and servicemen and women.

Blackpool councillors, Jim Houldsworth and Ron Bell, both veterans, were also in attendance and said it was a proud day for the town.

Coun Bell, a former marine and chairman of Fylde's ex-serviceman liaison committee, said: "This shows the very best of Blackpool."

For more information visit www.armedforcesday.co.uk.