'A wonderful event' - South Tyneside's Armed Forces community honoured with annual celebration
South Tyneside has honoured its Armed Forces community.
Members of the public joined together to honour South Tyneside’s Armed Forces community during the borough’s annual celebration at the weekend.
The event along the South Shields seafront on Sunday, June 21, began with a motorbike cavalcade along Sea Road, which was organised with the support of the Badlanders Motorcycle Club.
The cavalcade was followed by a uniformed parade from Gypsies Green to Bents Park, where Padre Daniel Alcock CF led a short open-air service.
Serving personnel, veterans, their families and residents all turned out in force to show the borough’s strong connection to the Armed Forces community.
Mrs Lucy Winskell OBE, the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, was also in attendance at the event.
‘A proud and important occasion’
Councillor Stan Wildhirt, Mayor of South Tyneside, has praised the impressive turnout for the annual celebration as the borough back its Armed Forces community.
He said: “Armed Forces Day is a proud and important occasion for South Tyneside. It was a real honour to join residents in recognising the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served our country.
“It is such a wonderful event for the whole family and a fitting tribute to the Borough’s military personnel, past and present.
“The day gave us all an opportunity to show support for the amazing work they do to help keep our country safe and to reflect on the enormous commitment and sacrifices they make.
“The turnout once again spoke volumes about the respect and appreciation our community has for our Armed Forces, not only on this special day, but throughout the year.”
The celebration was made possible due to support from the Badlanders Motorcycle Club, local Armed Forces charities, veterans’ groups, reservists, cadets, volunteers and the Ministry of Defence.
Armed Forces support in South Tyneside
The Council has a long-standing commitment to the Armed Forces community through its Armed Forces Covenant.
Over the last financial year, the local authority has supported 144 veterans within the borough with things from applying for a home to sustaining a tenancy or preventing homelessness.
Dedicated Armed Forces outreach work in South Tyneside also includes one-to-one support with housing options, welfare, employment and health.
It is delivered in partnerships with organisations including the Royal British Legion, SSAFA (Soldiers’ Sailors’ and Airmen’s’ Families Association) and NHS services as well as many local charitable organisations.
Councillor Mark Richardson, Chair of South Tyneside Armed Forces Forum, commented: “Events like Armed Forces Day are not only about coming together to show our appreciation, but also about recognising the ongoing support our Armed Forces community needs.
“Leaving the Armed Forces is not always straightforward.
“For many veterans, it can mean adjusting from a highly structured environment, strong friendships and a clear sense of purpose to navigating housing, employment, finances and health and wellbeing.
“We know that the transition to civilian life can present real challenges, which is why it’s so important that we continue to work closely with partners to provide practical support, ensuring veterans and their families are supported every step of the way.”
More information about Armed Forces support in South Tyneside can be found at: http://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/armedforces.