Armed Forces Flag Raised In Wrexham

The Armed Forces flag was raised in Wrexham this morning at a public ceremony outside the Guildhall.

Representatives from the air training corps and army cadet force were in attendance to raise two specially commissioned armed forces day flags ahead of the Armed Forces Day event, which takes place this Saturday.

The flag raising has been organised to mark the sixth Armed Forces Day on a day when the whole nation is invited to show support for the military community, both serving and retired, at home and abroad. The flags themselves will fly until July.

Representatives from the three armed forces were in attendance, along with Wrexham’s ex-service community, cadets, local politicians and councillors. Members of the public also attended the ceremony.

Mayor Alan Edwards addressed those present in a short speech, stating: “I am delighted to see so many of you here today to mark the countdown to Armed Forces Week by raising the specially commissioned Armed Forces Day flags in this short ceremony.

“The title Armed Forces Week was specially selected by the Ministry of Defence to build upon the previous veterans day celebrations and to include the whole Armed Forces family and serving personnel. The whole nation is invited to show support for our military community, both serving and retired, at home and abroad.”

Mayor Edwards added: “There are events large and small across the country throughout the week. The aim is for communities to come together in order to show appreciation for the contribution made by all those who have served in her Majesty’s Armed Forces.

“Wrexham has a long, proud and historic link to the armed forces and many of our youngsters have gone on to join the services to serve their country with honour and distinction. This year we are proud to be hosting North Wales Armed Forces Day. The event provides Wrexham and North Wales with the opportunity to acknowledge the veterans, cadets, volunteers and those who are currently serving in the armed forces.

“It is with very great honour for me as Mayor to be involved in this ceremony to honour our armed forces.”

The Armed Forces Day event will take place in the town centre on Saturday from 10am, with a parade leaving the barracks at 11.30 before arriving in the town centre at midday.

On the day of the event there will be a military village, Griffin helicopter on Llwyn Isaf Green, RAF Hawks and Spitfire to fly overhead, climbing walls, face painter, roving entertainers, circus workshops and light musical and choral entertainment from local artistes including Luke Gallagher and the Rhos Male Voice Choir. The County Youth Band will also make an appearance for the event.

Wrexham Lager have also confirmed they will be selling their popular brew on Llwyn Isaf during the afternoon.

The event is free to attend.