Armed Forces Week celebration takes place in town centre

The week started with former and serving members of the military stood outside Bolton Town Hall for a service and parade.

It closed with a day long event on Victoria Square.

This included displays from the Bolton Cadets, the 216 Bty Royal Artillery, and a display of the army fitness training.

Various stalls showcased information on the army, as well as a uniform and equipment .

Kirith Entwistle, Labour’s Parliamentary Candidate for Bolton North East, praised the contribution for UK Armed Forces in Bolton at the Armed Forces Day celebrations.

She said: “We are deeply proud of our Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and their families for the enormous contribution they make to our country.

“On Armed Forces Day, we thank them for all they do to keep Britain safe.”

A demonstration took place in Victoria Square showing people how they deal with an emergency.

Ryan Yates from the Veterans Army undertook the Army’s fitness challenge to raise money for the charity which supports those moving back on to Civvy Street.

This challenge included running a mile run, fireman carry, sit -ups, and press-ups.

Ryan said: “The fitness challenge enables everyone to do something which involves the community.

“The workout itself is based on the basic military fitness test from when I joined the army, so it gives you an idea of what it’s like to be in the army and the fitness level required.”

Cllr Ryan Bamforth was also in attendance and is a veteran himself.

He said: “These soldiers, airmen and women and sailors get up every day, and put their uniform on and they should not be forgotten or taken for granted.”

“They give their best years to the armed forces or most of it.”

Members of the 216 Bty Royal Artillery put on display in the town centre as people lined up to take pictures.

There was music from Bolton FM, food stalls and inflatables for young people to enjoy.