Armed Forces Day – an event to remember

Spennymoor Town Mayor, Cllr Liz Maddison, oversaw the event, welcoming Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Commander Ian Berry MBE Rd RN Res, to the event, which included an evocative Drumhead Service, featuring representatives from the British Army and Royal Navy.

Conducting the services with aplomb were Rev Barbara Hilton and Rev Matt Tarling and the Parade Marshall for the event was Andrew Somerset, who was joined by Army and Navy Cadets with music played by the incredible Spennymoor Town Band.

Cllr Maddison, in attendance with her Consort Clive Maddison, said: “Spennymoor is a town with incredible civic pride and that is never more evident when it comes to celebrating, remembering and honouring our armed forces.

“Armed Forces Day is a superb opportunity for us to come together as a community and recognise those who put our country ahead of themselves and also enjoy a fabulous family-friendly event.”

Following the Drumhead Service, the arrival of rain meant some minor adjustments to the arena timetable and the unfurling of the inflatables and rides, but the festivities were soon underway. Let's Circus thrilled the crowds with some breathtaking trapeze and aerial gymnastic, Broke FMX motorcross shredded nerves with some stunning daredevil stunts and Afrikan Warriors drew gasps with incredible feats of strength and acrobatics.

The inflatables, funfair rides, climbing wall, face painters and variety of stalls (including 8 Rifles, SSAFA, Sea Cadets, Army Cadets. RBL, Town Mayor charity stall) selling sweets, ice creams and various other catering options were busy throughout.

Cllr Maddison added: “A huge thank you must go to everyone involved – the organisers, Armed Forces representatives, Clergy, Deputy Lord Lieutenant and everyone who came along to support.

“When we stage events in Spennymoor like this, it is always fantastic to see so many people from our communities embrace and enjoy them.”