Manchester says thank you with Armed Forces Day
22 June 2011
Manchester will thank all members of the armed forces, past and present, when it celebrates Armed Forces Day on Saturday 25 June at Piccadilly Gardens.
Between 11am-5pm Piccadilly Gardens will be filled with live music, free family friendly activities, bars and food stalls. The area will be transformed into a picnic area, allowing members of the public to relax and enjoy the day in the sunshine.
Music will be provided by a group of ten members of the Royal Artillery Band, known as Voice of the Guns. The group have performed alongside Status Quo and Jools Holland and are regarded to be the best in the army.
Other activities will include fitness taster sessions with Civilian Military Fitness, a climbing wall, storytelling and craft activities for under fives, a display of military vehicles and football competitions.
The army will be displaying an L118 105mm light gun and information about armed forces activities will be available from stalls staffed by members of the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal British Legion, Air Training Corps, Sea Cadets and Army Cadets. There will also be stalls offering valuable advice, information and support to veterans.
During Armed Forces Day, armed forces personnel and veterans will be able to enjoy a collection of special offers that will be available on production of the Veterans Badge or Armed Forces ID card. Offers include free tram travel for the day, free parking at two city centre NCP car parks, free rides on the Wheel of Manchester, and discounts at a number of Manchester's bar and restaurants.
At 11.30am the Greater Manchester Garrison Commanding Officer will receive the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Harry Lyons JP, shortly before they both review the Veterans Parade of Standards.
The Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Harry Lyons JP, said, "Armed Forces Day is a fantastic way for the city to thank everyone who has served our country and all those who continue to do so. There's so much happening in Piccadilly Gardens this year it is certain to be an exciting day out for everyone.
"Armed Forces Day reminds us of the gratitude we owe all servicemen and women past and present and I am proud that Manchester has chosen to pay tribute to our heroes with such a spectacular event."
For more information please visit: www.manchester.gov.uk/armedforcesday
