‘Very special’- South Shields FC to honour UK and Danish veterans at its 2026 Remembrance ceremony
South Shields FC will honour the veterans of two countries in its yearly Remembrance ceremony.
A South Tyneside football club is standing shoulder to shoulder with military veterans from across the UK and Denmark by hosting a poignant annual Remembrance ceremony.
South Shields FC will pay tribute shortly before its 3pm home kick-off against Southport on Saturday, November 7, by bringing together former servicemen and women.
Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel, along with veterans and flag bearers, will be involved to create a fitting tribute to those who served their country.
Local dignitaries, including Jarrow and Gateshead East MP Kate Osborne, and supporters and the public will also be present.
And club volunteer Bob Scott and non-executive director Paul Macpherson, a key player in organising the ceremony, are set to attend.
International connection for 2026
The event will also have a special international connection - with an expected contingent of 18 Danish veterans paying their respects and participating in the wreath-laying ceremony.
Their involvement came about following an enquiry to attend the match, with the club delighted to extend an invitation to take part in the commemorations.
Jarrow-based Veterans Response CIC, which provides valuable support, training and practical assistance to former Armed Forces personnel and the wider community, is also involved.
South Shields FC commercial director Carl Mowatt said: “This is always a very special and important occasion for everyone connected with South Shields Football Club.
“Remembrance is about coming together as a community to recognise the extraordinary sacrifices made by those who served, and continue to serve, our country.
“We are particularly honoured to welcome our visitors from Denmark this year. It demonstrates how remembrance, respect and friendship extend far beyond our own borders.
“The support we receive from veterans, Armed Forces representatives, volunteers, supporters and the wider community is tremendous, and everyone involved deserves enormous credit for helping make this such a meaningful occasion.
“It is something the whole football club is extremely proud to support. For South Shields FC, the occasion is about much more than football.
“It is an opportunity for generations to stand together, remember those who never returned home, and show their gratitude to everyone who has served.”
‘Any veteran is welcome to join us’
Piper Jamie Swainston will lead the procession, while Frankie Burns will perform The Last Post.
South Shields players will also wear specially designed shirts incorporating the poppy emblem, which will later be auctioned.
As a gesture of appreciation, the club is offering free admission to serving Armed Forces personnel and veterans, on production of appropriate military identification.
Ian Driver, 61, founder of Veterans Response, said: “This is a wonderful way to remember those who have served their country and still do.
“Any veteran is welcome to join us on the pitch and be part of this service, and they can bring along their regimental banner.
“In previous years it has been very well supported, and it is also a good way for veterans to find out more about the work we do and the support we can give.”
The club hopes supporters will arrive early to take their places and join in what promises to be a moving and dignified tribute.
Further information is at www.southshieldsfc.co.uk.