Bolton's Armed Forces Week plans revealed

Monday, June 19 marks the start of Armed Forces Week, and in Bolton, a flag will be raised at the town hall on Victoria Square with a short service set for 11am.

The mayor of Bolton, Cllr Mohammed Ayub and the mayoress along with the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mary Liz-Walker and the Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Martin Ainscough, will be on the square for the service.

A council spokesman said: “Saturday, June 24 is Armed Forces Day.

“On Monday, June 19, Bolton Council will be raising the Armed Forces Day Flag in celebration.

Pic: Henry Lisowski (Image: Henry Lisowski)

“This is a way of honouring all members of the armed forces, past and present."

There will be a sea cadet flag ceremony, cadet displays, music and challenges, along with equipment and vehicle displays and stalls.

Bolton FM will be at the event and a flag closing ceremony takes place at 3pm.

Councillor for Horwich and Blackrod First Independents and ex-soldier in the British military, Ryan Bamforth said: “This means more now as a veteran as you see your role and position in the armed forces world change to a thankful and supportive place.

“Thankful for what the armed forces has awarded you in memories, friendships, and experiences, both good and bad.

“More importantly, I am thankful that we still have brave servicemen and women who are still out there defending us.

“It is important that we never forget and always appreciate that we have our armed forces who willing put themselves in harm’s way to protect us.”

On Saturday, June 24 there will be a laying of the wreath in memory of those that gave their life for the country.

Cllr Bamforth left the military in 2017, after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Since leaving, Cllr Bamforth has set up a veterans support group, which meets every second Wednesday from 7pm to 8.30pm at the Brazley Community Centre in Horwich, to support those needing to talk to access other services after their time in the armed forces.