Armed Forces Day gets 12-month pass

Armed Forces Day has been granted a one-year pass - but it will be back bigger and better in 2021.

Tameside Council's decision to postpone the annual event, which regularly attracts hundreds into Denton's Victoria Park to enjoy entertainment and other attractions, was taken in light of the ongoing Covid-19 emergency and lockdown.

The authority say giving Armed Forces Day a year's leave will protect the public, as well as our veterans - many of whom are in the groups that face the greatest risk of contracting coronavirus.

Cllr Ged Cooney, Tameside Council’s executive member with responsibility for the Armed Forces Covenant, said: "This wasn’t an easy decision because we fully understand the importance of Armed Forces Day and its significance for the services community and wider public.

"However our most fundamental duty as a local authority is to protect our residents, which means we had no choice but to comply with government advice on public gatherings. We firmly believe postponement is in the best interests of all involved: organisers, volunteers and visitors.

"I’m sure our services community and veterans will understand because protecting the people of this country is what the armed forces do.

"We look forward to hosting a truly incredible event next year when we will be able to thank and celebrate with our veterans and service personnel in an appropriate manner." 

For more information, visit www.tameside.gov.uk/armedforcescovenant, www.tameside.gov.uk/culture or www.tamesideasc.org.uk.