Lancashire towns fly flag to honour armed forces (From Preston and Leyland Citizen)

Lancashire towns fly flag to honour armed forces

11:15am Tuesday 23rd June 2009

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By Peter Magill »

CIVIC leaders across East Lancashire have pledged their support for the armed forces at the start of a week-long military festival.

Armed Forces Day is being celebrated on Saturday, June 27, to honour Britain’s armed forces of the past, present and future.

It is enabling people to show their appreciation to those who have contributed in Her Majesty’s armed forces.

Flags have been raised at civic buildings across the country and will be flown throughout the week.

Blackburn

Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Coun James Hirst, was joined by Deputy Lieutenant Sir Bernard De Hoghton, and other dignitaries.

He said: “Many men and women from Blackburn with Darwen, as well as across the UK, have made their contribution to the defence of this country at different times and in different ways.

“This ceremony is a small mark of gratitude to them all.”

Burnley

Mayor of Burnley Coun John Harbour, led the way outside the town hall, in Manchester Road, helping to hoist a specially-commissioned Union flag marking the first-ever Armed Forces day on Saturday.

Chorley

The Mayor, Councillor Iris Smith, was presented with the flag by Deputy Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lady Shuttleworth, before it was hoisted high above the Town to flutter gracefully in the wind.

“I’m delighted to be part of this ceremony as I feel it is important to honour all our Armed Forces. I am particularly proud of all our local heroes,” said the Mayor.

“My husband and Consort Jim served in the Navy for nine years so I am aware of the professionalism and dedication of the Armed Forces, both home and abroad, often in the most challenging circumstances.

“It’s a splendid way to honour not only those who have died, but the men and women who have served and still serve in the armed forces today,” said Lady Shuttleworth.

Pendle

Council leaders in Pendle have pledged £1,000 towards a host of activities, which are being planned alongside the Royal British Legion for this weekend.

Preston

County council chairman Alan Whittaker also raised the flag with Rodney Swarbrick, vice Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, at County Hall, Preston, witnessed by soldiers from the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, veterans and guests.

Coun Whittaker said: “The flag will serve as an important reminder to the people of Lancashire about the contribution our armed forces have made in various conflicts over the years. Without their hard jobs" target="_blank">work, bravery and commitment, our lives today would be far different and it is important for us all to reflect on this.”

Rawtenstall

In Rawtenstall, Rossendale Mayor Coun Joyce Thorne, was presented with the valley’s version of the flag by Lancashire’s Deputy Lieutenant, Andrew Wilson.

Council leader Coun Tony Swain, cabinet colleagues and aldermen looked on as the flag was blessed by Mayor’s chaplain, Father Richard O’Connor, and unveiled as bugler James Hoyle played the Last Post.

The ceremony, also attended by new council chief executive Helen Lockwood, was followed by a tree planting ceremony.

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