On Sunday 30 June, Bedford will honour serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military charities with its annual Armed Forces Day parade.
The parade begins at De Parys Avenue at 10.20am and residents are urged to line the High Street to watch and show their support.
From the High Street, the parade will make its way around St Paul’s Square, finishing in Harpur Square where stalls and music from May Blossom Vintage Songbird, Lissie Allsopp and Ampthill Town Band will entertain the crowds until 4pm.
Freedom of the Borough
A highlight of the day is be the granting of the Freedom of the Borough to a distinguished unit from Chicksands. Bedford Borough Council will bestow this esteemed and prestigious honour, allowing the unit’s personnel to march proudly through the streets of the town centre on ceremonial occasions with colours flying, bands playing, drums beating, and bayonets fixed.
Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, described the significance of this event.
“The parade is a very special occasion and I encourage everyone to come and join the troops’ celebration by lining the streets to cheer them along their way,” she said.
“We invite everyone to come together in Bedford Town Centre to show your support for our armed forces and to celebrate this historic occasion. Your presence will make this day even more special for those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country.”
