Bolton Council has organised an array of services and events to commemorate Armed Forces Week, beginning today (Monday, June 23) where there will be a short service and the raising of the Armed Forces Day Flag at 10:50am on Victoria Square.
The public are invited to attend and show their support of our armed forces, both past and present.
The Mayor of Bolton will then host a free veterans’ lunch in the town hall, where all veterans are invited.
There will be live entertainment, which will lead into the forces-themed singalong and flag-waving.
Carrs Pasties, Park Cakes Bolton and Bank Top Brewery have offered to serve food and beer free of charge in support for our veterans and serving members of the armed forces.
On Saturday, June 28, the council will hold their annual Armed Forces Day event on Victoria Square (10:30am – 3:30pm) with a short service followed by a family-fun day with lots of stalls and free activities, such as paintballing.
Bolton Cadets will also be on display, along with re-enactments, and there will be organisations like the Veteran’s Army available to talk to, who offer support, training, and counselling for veterans.
Fortitude Fitness will take part, offering a variety of machines for people to have a go on, alongside more free activities for all the family.
There will be military vehicles and weapons on display, supported by our local 216 Bty Royal Artillery.
Cllr Ryan Bamforth, Bolton Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “This is an important time to honour our military and show our support for the vital job they do.
“As a veteran myself, this means more now as I see the role and position in the armed forces world change to a thankful and supportive place.
“I am thankful for what the armed forces have awarded me in memories, friendships, and experiences, both good and bad.
“More importantly, I am thankful that we have brave servicemen and women who are still out there defending us.
“I welcome all Bolton’s veterans to the luncheon at the town hall on Monday, where we will also be raising the Armed Forces Day Flag to coincide with events across the country.
“It will also be great to see service personnel, cadets, and veterans in Victoria Square with the people of Bolton enjoying the spectacle of Armed Forces Day.
“Bolton organises Armed Forces Week to show our support for our armed forces, past and present.”
