A GREAT day’s family entertainment is guaranteed when Middlesbrough celebrates Armed Forces Day later this month.
The annual event in Centre Square on Saturday, June 20 is a chance for people to show their continued support for the UK’s service personnel and veterans.
This year’s event – open to all, from families and local groups to veterans and potential new recruits – runs from 10am to 3pm, with the parade due start at 11am.
Armed Forces Day has been developed to reflect the wider role of the UK Armed Forces in the life of the nation and its local communities, and their involvement in ongoing conflicts around the globe.
The celebration reflects the wider role of the UK Armed Forces in the life of the nation and its local communities, and their involvement in ongoing conflicts around the globe.
Highlights of the Middlesbrough event will include a parade of service veterans, Air Sea and Army Cadets, with veterans, local army and cadet units and standard bearers in attendance.
There will be traditional games for all the family to enjoy, an inflatable junior assault course, face-painting and a tea dance featuring vintage female singing group the Doo Wop Dollies performing popular hits from the 1920s, 30s and 40s.
The event – supported by Middlesbrough Council, Armed Forces Forum, Middlesbrough College, Teesside University and The Ministry of Defence – will feature a wide range of stalls including S.S.A.F.A, W.R.A.C, The Army Benevolent Fund, Force Eighty, and Royal British legion, as well as stands by local reserve units and cadets.
Councillor Ron Arundale, Middlesbrough Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “Our Armed Forces are a source of great pride locally and nationally for the sacrifices they continue to make on our behalf.
“Armed Forces Day is the town’s opportunity to celebrate their commitment and professionalism and to show our respect for all our service personnel, from the youngest recruit to the oldest veteran.
“Centre Square is a great setting for this celebration of our armed forces, so I’m looking forward to another great turn-out for this special day.”
- Armed Forces Day runs in Centre Square from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, June 20. The event is free and is open to all.