Loughborough thanks Armed Forces

Armed forces heroes are being thanked for their service this week in the run up to Armed Forces Day.

Charnwood Borough Council has raised the Armed Forces Day flag at Loughborough Town Hall to mark the lead up to the national day of celebration on Saturday 27th June.

Social distancing measures have prevented events taking place in the town centre, but members of the armed forces, their families and veterans will continue to be thanked for their service online.

Councillor Hilary Fryer, the council’s armed forces champion, said: “Members of the armed forces family make great sacrifices for our communities, whether that’s in times of conflict or peace time.

“As has been demonstrated during the recent weeks, helping to build in record time the Nightingale Hospitals and assist across the country with testing for the Covid 19 Virus.

“It is very sad that this year we are not able to commemorate Armed Forces Day as we usually do in the town centre. However many communities and residents showed how much they care during the recent VE day celebrations.

“I am sure that we will all remember and thank them all again on Saturday.  They are always there in our times of need”

Armed Forces Day is a chance to show support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community; from currently serving troops to families, veterans and cadets.

With government guidance on mass gatherings and events impacting plans for celebrations in Loughborough town centre, activities are moving online.

Visitors to Queen's Park in the town can also visit the Carillon tower war memorial to see a window display of former and serving forces personnel from across the borough.