Inverness marks Armed Forces Day

The City of Inverness will mark Armed Forces Day on Saturday 29 June with a massed parade from Eastgate and service and events at the Northern Meeting Park.

Military and civilian groups will be represented in the parade which leaves Eastgate Centre at 1pm led by massed pipes and drums.

The parade will march past Inverness Town House where the Salute will be taken by the Lord Lieutenant of Inverness Donald Cameron of Lochiel, Provost of Inverness Councillor Alex Graham and Lt Col A. P. Reilly Commanding Officer 3SCOTS.

Arriving at the Northern Meeting Park at 1:30pm - colours will be received by The Reverend Alistair Murray, Chaplain to the Royal British Legion Scotland, Inverness Branch. Rev Murray will then lead the Drumhead Service followed by a presentation of medals and badges. A programme of events at the Northern Meeting Park till 5:10pm will include: Crown Church Band; Highland Dancing Displays; Merkinch Choir; 19 Regiment Royal Artillery (Scottish Gunners) Gun Action; The Tri-Service Cadet Competition for the Norbord Cup; Scottish Country Dancing Display; 7SCOTS Section Attack display; Tug of War Competition; and massed pipes and drums.

Provost of Inverness Councillor Alex Graham said: “Saturday’s events in Inverness for Armed Forces Day will help to raise public awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who serve, and have served, in Her Majesty's Armed Forces.  It gives the public a real opportunity to show its support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community - currently serving troops, Service families, veterans and cadets.

“I am sure that everyone will have an unforgettable day with the large City Centre Parade making its way to the historic Northern Meeting Park, where the Drumhead Service and Medal presentation ceremonies will be followed by a host of interesting displays and activities.”

Councillor Carolyn Caddick, Highland Council’s Armed Forces and Veterans' Champion added: “The UK Armed Forces defend the UK and its interests, working around the world to promote peace, deliver aid, tackle drug smugglers, provide security and fight terrorism.  The current main UK military effort is in Afghanistan, where our services help ensure a safer Britain and world in co-operation with the armed forces of many other countries. 

“Public support for the Armed Forces provides a much-valued morale boost for the troops and their families. Monies raised during the day will provide much-needed support for the work of Veterans’ charities.”

Armed Forces Day Flags are being flown from The Highland Council’s headquarters and Town House from today (25 June) until Monday 1 July.

The Armed Forces Day Parade is sponsored by The Highland Council; Tomatin Distillery; Speedprint; Duncan Fraser Master Butcher; Macdougall & Hastie Ltd; Asher Bakers; Harry Gow Bakers; Scotbake Bakers; Asda Supermarket; Booker Cash & Carry; Co-op Supermarket; Morrison Supermarket; Tesco Supermarket; D Chisholm & Sons Funeral Directors; John Fraser & Son Funeral Directors; Dunma Glass Sporting Estate; F. T. Davidson (Electricians) and A & I Quality Butchers.

Admission is free to the Northern Meeting Park but donations are welcomed. All surplus monies will be donated to ex-Services and local charities. Shopmobility will be in attendance.

25 Jun 2013