Published: Wednesday, 7th April, 2010 12:00pm

Armed and ready to honour troops

by Lauren Everitt

PREPARATIONS are well under way for a celebration of the country's armed forces.

Bracknell Armed Forces Day 2010 will be marked over two days on Saturday, June 26, and Sunday, June 27, in the grounds opposite South Hill Park.

Past, present and future armed forces personnel will be the centre of attention at a parade, entertainment evening and gala lunch.

Guests will be treated to first-class demonstrations from 2211 Bracknell Squadron Air Training Corps, the TS Lion Slough Sea Cadets and 7th Platoon Bracknell who will demonstrate drill co-ordination, traditional naval skills of the field gun and strength.

Bracknell Town Mayor, Cllr Chas Baily, chairman of Bracknell Armed Forces Day committee, said: "I'm very much looking forward to the celebrations.

"Everything seems to be moving along swimmingly but we just need more fundraising."

The committee has been given a £3,500 grant from the Ministry of Defence while Bracknell Royal Naval Association, Royal British Legion and Royal Air Force associations have each pledged £500 towards the event.

"It will be a weekend evening of superb entertainment to recognise our armed forces," added Cllr Baily.

"Let Us Entertain You" will be one of the main attractions at South Hill Park's Wilde Theatre on Saturday, June 26.

Tickets cost £10 per person from the theatre's box office and the talented acts will be revealed in May.

Bracknell Armed Forces Day, which is themed on Cadet 150 - celebrating 150 years of the cadet forces - is an opportunity for the nation to show its support for the men and women who make up the armed forces past, present and future, including service families, cadets, veterans and recruits.

Armed Forces Minister, Bill Rammell, said: "It is an opportunity to recognise our veterans and the wider Armed Forces community."

A variety of fundraising nights have been organised including a race night at Binfield Memorial Hall on Saturday, April 17, and Saturday, May 8, at 7.30pm.

Tickets costs £6 from bafd@live.co.uk Anyone wanting to be a part of the celebrations or ex-service personnel who want to be presented with their veterans lapel badge contact Emily Bidwell via bafd@live.com or 01344 441600.

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