People urged to show support for Stockton's Armed Forces
A packed programme of events is taking place today
People in and around Stockton are being urged to show their support to the borough's Armed Forces past, present and future.
An event, hosted by Stockton Borough Council, on the High Street will host a packed programme of events, including information, displays and demonstrations by a variety of military exhibitors.
Armed Forces Day recognises the work that members of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, as well as veterans, cadets and armed forces families all play in keeping the UK safe, at home and abroad.
A flag raising ceremony and Thanksgiving Service will launch the day’s activities at 10am followed by a programme of entertainment throughout the day; family workshops, military equipment and vehicle and aircraft displays, street theatre and activities.
There will be live wartime musical performances from Janie St John, The Military WAGS Choir Catterick, The Salvation Army Band, The Lipsticks Trio and Stockton Sings – Globe Community Choir.
Stalls will include:
• 4th Battalion the Royal Yorkshire Regiment
• REME plus an on-site vehicle and VR headsets
• 243 Provost, Royal Military Police
• Stu-Art
• NEWMP NE War Memorial Project
• VERA
• 214MMR
• Royal Air Forces Association
• Royal Naval Association
• Sea Cadets
• RAF Leeming
• Royal British Legion
• Preston Park Museum & Grounds
• RAFR Leeming
• Teesside Archives
• Hangar 1914
• Military Vehicle Club, Jeeps
• Military Vehicle Trust
Councillor Lisa Evans, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Leader and the Borough's Armed Forces Champion, said: “It's hugely important that we never forget the selfless commitment, endeavour and sacrifice of our Armed Forces to keep us safe at home and abroad.
“Armed Forces Day is a great opportunity for the people of the Borough to join us in honouring all the brave men and women currently serving our country.
“Following feedback from residents we’ve moved our Armed Forces Day event to a weekend this year, including the flag raising ceremony, to provide more opportunity for working residents and families to attend, show their support and enjoy all the activities and entertainment.
“Showing your support for the Armed Forces provides a much-valued morale boost for military personnel and their families and I'd certainly encourage our residents of all ages to join the celebrations on the day."