Thousands pay tribute to Armed Forces
THOUSANDS of people turned out on Sunday to show their appreciation to those in the armed services, past and present, as Southport celebrated Armed Forces Day.
This was the third year that local SSAFA veterans have organised the event in our resort.
The Armed Forces charity, formerly known as Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, is a UK charity that provides lifelong support to serving men and women and veterans from the British Armed Forces and their families or dependents.
SSAFA spokesman Jay Keen said: “It was very well received and the feedback was very positive and very encouraging.
“It was one of the best days we have had and was well supported by the general public who came out in support.
“We would like to thank all involved for the hard work that was put into making the the day a success including our sponsor, Southport Freemasons, and was supported by Avacardo of Ainsdale, The Temperance on London Street and Sovini Group with marshals.”
The event was held as part of Armed Forces Day, the annual national campaign that gives everyone the opportunity to show their support for the men and women of the Armed Forces past and present.
The event includes serving troops, service families, reservists, veterans and cadets, enabling people to come together and show their support, and giving a much-valued morale boost for the personnel and their families.
Leading the parade in Southport was the Band of the Kings Division along with 103 Royal Artillery, 208 Battery from Liverpool towing a L118 Field Gun and 156 Regiment 238 Squadron supporting the event with their field kitchen serving food in support of SSAFA, and their recruitment stands. The Rifles were also in attendance.
Veterans and standard bearers from the surrounding areas from Liverpool to Burscough support the event. They include Merseyside Army Cadet Force along with their recruiting trailer, Southport Sea Cadets, and 281 Southport Squadron Royal Air Force Cadets.
Jay Keen said: “Thank you to all the military vehicle owners, the WWII Austin heavy field ambulance and the life-size WWI Sopwith Camel biplane, which went down very well.
“The live music acts entertaining the crowds went down very well with the George Formby Society, The United Voice Choir, The Just Voices Choir and the Ukulele Minstrels.
“VIPs In attendance included Mr Mark FW Blundell, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside; Southport MP Damian Moore; Bootle MP Peter Dowd; Dave Robinson, Mayor of Sefton; and Sqn Ldr Lee Rimmer of 611 Squadron Reserves from RAF Woodvale.
“We will continue to organise the event and will see you all next year.”