THE contribution the armed forces make to the UK was celebrated in Burnham and Highbridge on Saturday as part of national Armed Forces Day celebrations.
Veterans and dignitaries gathered to mark Armed Forces Day, with Burnham and Highbridge’s Mayor Michael Clarke leading a flag-raising ceremony in Market Street, Highbridge and a flag-raising ceremony also taking place in Burnham on Marine Drive.
MP James Heappey, a veteran himself, said it was important to celebrate those currently serving and those that have served in the armed forces.
He said: “It is really important that people came out in good numbers today, including serving members and veterans.”
“Armed Forces Day started quite soon after my last trip to Afghanistan and I think it’s a great day.
“My hope is that we may be able to make even more of the day here in the future – it’s a lovely ceremony when we raise the flag, but wouldn’t it be great if we could all gather outside the Legion and march down the High Street with more cadets involved.
“There’s a lot of sympathy and empathy with the armed forces in Burnham and Highbridge and I think there’s a chance to do more to mark this important day.”
Armed Forces Day was seen across the UK, with the national event held in Guildford, Surrey involving hundreds of Armed Forces personnel, veterans and cadets.
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