A parade of local service charities and cadet groups will take place through Burnham-On-Sea town centre today (Saturday, June 25th) to mark Armed Forces Day.
The parade along the High Street will be followed by a flag-raising ceremony.
Co-ordinated by Burnham’s MP James Heappey, local service charities and cadet cores will be taking part with the aim of raising awareness of Armed Forces Day.
The Royal Air Force Association (RAFA) will hold their annual Brew For The Few at The Railway pub in the morning.
The various groups will assemble for the parade at the rear of The Princess Theatre from 12.30pm.
The parade will step off at 12.55pm, arriving at the flag pole at the junction of Pier Street, Abingdon Street and Old Station Approach at around 1pm.
A short act of remembrance will take place and the parade will then be dismissed at the flag pole.
Mr Heappey told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Burnham and Highbridge has a strong connection to the armed forces. Many local residents have served or are serving and we have really great cadet contingents in the towns too.”
“It seems right that we should celebrate Armed Forces Day and I hope that this year’s parade will be the start of an annual celebration of those who serve, will serve and have served our country in our military.”
“It would be great to see people on the High Street showing their support for our military during the parade at 12.55pm.”
“There will then be a short act of remembrance at the flag pole at the junction of the High Street and Pier Street at 1pm. Anyone who has served or is currently serving, is very welcome to join the parade, which assembles to the rear of the Princess Theatre from 12.30pm.”
“Beforehand is the Royal Air Force Association’s Brew For The Few at The Railway pub and after the parade, there are a number of local businesses who are offering deals to those who have taken part.”
“I’m grateful to them for their support and hope that this year’s small parade will pave the way for bigger things on Armed Forces Day in Burnham and Highbridge in the years ahead.”
A shop and business window competition will also be held, with a trophy for the best display.
