City event to mark forces day
Red Devils dropping by
The annual Stirling Armed Forces Day will be on the march in King’s Park this Saturday.
The afternoon event includes military parades, musical entertainment and family fun – including a spectacular display from the Parachute Regiment’s Red Devils.
Proceedings start with The Kennedy Cupcakes on stage at noon, who kick the afternoon off with some lively dance routines before the official parade steps off from Port Street at 12.05pm.
The 6&7 Scots band will join forces with Pipes and Drums 7 Scots and the Royal Marines Band to lead the procession to the park before the Red Devils descend from the skies as the day gets into full swing.
As part of the celebrations there will be fee parking at all Stirling Council car parks and at the Thistles and Marches shopping centres.
Stirling Council Provost Christine Simpson, who will be there on the day, said this week that she is looking forward to taking in all the sights and sounds.
She said: “Last year this was such a special event for me as I was attending for the first time as Provost.
“Now I know exactly what’s in store and I’m really excited for the full afternoon.
“All the music, parades and entertainment is a brilliant way to bring the community together and show a bit of support to the armed forces.
“There’s enough to keep everyone entertained and I really hope we get a great turnout for the day.”
Alongside the Red Devils will be musical entertainment from Dionne Hickey and Stevie McCrorie, winner of TV’s The Voice programme.
Star Wars enthusiasts the UK Garrison Storm Troopers, formed in 2000, will also be mingling with the crowds.
Minister of State for the Armed Forces, the Rt Hon Mark Lancaster MP, who will be at the Stirling event, said this week: “Scottish sailors, soldiers and aircrew are serving right now under the Atlantic, over the Middle East, Africa and Eastern Europe. These men and women are working with our international allies to help keep us all safe and protect our cherished way of life.
“Communities showing their appreciation for the service of our armed forces provides a muchvalued morale boost to our troops, veterans and their families.”
Stirling Albion will also be offering free football taster sessions for youngsters, while Active Stirling will be promoting their Tee Time for Vets free golf tee time initiative.
Lots of other free activities, including a climbing wall and mini assault course, will also be on offer with further information available at http://www. stirlingarmedforcesday. co.uk/
...enough to keep everyone entertained