Torridge District Council marks the start of Armed Forces Week

On Monday 24 June 2024, staff and councillors were joined by veterans from the armed forces community to mark the start of Armed Forces Week by raising the Armed Forces Day Flag at the Riverbank House Flagpole in Bideford.

John Peel, Mark Allen, and Bob Ferguson from the Royal Marines Association North Devon Branch, alongside Bernie Ridd (RAF Veteran), Trevor Evans (Army Veteran), Linda Evans (Army Veteran), and Pat Ferguson, a long-time associate member of the Royal Marines Association, were the guests of honour at the event. The event was presided over by the Reverend Kevin Beer, with Piper Mike Harper from the Bideford Youth Band also present.

Armed Forces Day is observed on the last Saturday of each June, with this year's date falling on the 29th of June. The day offers an opportunity to demonstrate our support for the members of the Armed Forces community, including currently serving personnel, Service families, veterans, and cadets.

The occasion also marks the conclusion of a week-long celebration, commencing on Monday 24th June, when the public displays their support and appreciation for the Armed Forces community. Additionally, Reserves Day takes place on the 26th June, providing the country with an opportunity to acknowledge our Reserve Forces.

Steve Hearse, Chief Executive Officer, Torridge District Council, said:

"Events like this provide us with a great opportunity to come together and remember the sacrifices made by armed forces personnel and veterans, who work tirelessly to keep us safe and secure. We take pride in raising the Armed Forces Flag at Torridge as a symbol of our support and gratitude to the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces and the families that stand by them."