Torridge District Council marks the start of Armed Forces Week

On Monday 22nd June 2026, 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, Bob Ferguson, and Paul Fast, Royal Marines Veterans from the Royal Marines Association North Devon Branch, alongside Brian Mulholland (RAF Veteran), Carl Williamson (Royal Navy Veteran),  Pat Ferguson and Ruth Williamson, civilian members of the Royal Marines Association were the guests of honour at the event. The event was presided over by the Reverend Alan Glover, 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 27th of June. The day offers an opportunity to demonstrate support for the members of the Armed Forces community, including currently serving personnel, service families, veterans, and cadets.

Councillor Doug Bushby, Chair of Torridge District Council, said:

"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.  Armed Forces Day is a moment of national pride. 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."

June 2026