Armed Forces Event, Saturday 26 June

Armed Forces Day gives everyone the opportunity to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community; from currently serving troops to Service families, veterans and cadets.  

The event organised by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, the Hinckley Combined Ex-services Association and Churches Together will include representatives from several regiments, nationalities, sections and services, including the local cadet forces.

A short service will take place at the Argents Mead bandstand at 11am, led by Rev Gary Weston. This will be followed by a parade down Church Walk where a formal salute on Station Road will be taken by the Mayor of Hinckley and Bosworth Cllr Ted Hollick and Lt. Col. David Young TD DL representing the Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire.

A new addition to the event this year is a display of military vehicles and memorabilia in Argents Mead on display from 10am to 2pm, there will be a one-way system in operation to view the exhibits.

Anybody wishing to attend is asked to adhere to current coronavirus guidelines. Covid-19 town centre stewards and events staff will be in attendance and hand sanitising stations available. Please do not attend if you are displaying any coronavirus symptoms.

Executive Member for Culture, Leisure, Tourism and Town Centres at the Borough Council, Councillor Keith Nichols, said “Whilst I am absolutely delighted that once again we are able to hold an event in recognition of our Armed Forces and veterans I would ask all those who plan to attend to follow all necessary coronavirus guidelines, they are in place for the safety of everyone.

“It is also great news that this event has been extended with the display of military vehicles and memorabilia, my thanks to everyone who has contributed to this. I am sure it will be very popular with everyone.”

Cllr Danny Findlay, Armed Forces Champion said: "I welcome that the Borough Council are able to mark Armed Forces Day this year in light of the reduced coronavirus restrictions. It is of great importance to recognise and thank our armed forces, veterans and cadet forces for all they have done and continue to do. The return of the Borough's annual service and events are key to continuing to highlight the brilliant work that our forces personnel past and present do. I ask that those attending and participating in the occasion remember that there are still coronavirus restrictions in place, adhere to the guidelines, so that everyone can celebrate Armed Forces Day safely."

The Armed Forces Day flag will also be flown at the Hinckley Hub on Monday 21 June to Monday 28 June in order to mark this national event.