Wakefield Armed Forces Day goes online

At this time of year the district would normally be gearing up for Wakefield Armed Forces Day which traditionally takes places on the last weekend in June but due to the coronavirus pandemic it’s not possible for the event to take place .

The Armed Forces Flag is flying from Wakefield Town Hall this week to formally mark the occasion.

Coun Sandra Pickin, Wakefield Council’s Armed Forces Champion said: “By flying the Armed Forces Flag we want to show our support and appreciation to all those who have served, or are currently serving in the forces, and to their families.

"Their contribution means a great deal, and I am pleased we are celebrating in a different, but no less important way.

“Although we cannot celebrate this important and very popular event in the usual way, I hope people will stop and think about the amazing work of our armed forces and all that they contribute, whilst enjoying the activities on social media all this week.”

Wakefield’s Mayor Coun Charles Keith, said: “It is unfortunate that with the lockdown still in place we were unable to celebrate and pay tribute to, our Armed Forces, in the usual way as we do annually within the district. It is particularly significant as on the Thursday of Armed Forces week we commemorate the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War, which is often called the forgotten war.”

Cllr Keith will be laying a wreath at the war memorial in Wood St on Thursday to remember those who fought and sacrificed. He is recording a tribute to appear on the Council’s website.

Visit ww.facebook.com/WakefieldArmedForcesDay.