Troops and cadets join Romford’s Armed Forces Day march

Appreciation for the armed forces “remains as strong as ever” as many flocked to a touching parade.

Havering held its annual Armed Forces Day parade on Saturday (June 24), with troops, veterans, cadets and service families joining the march.

Parachute Regiment veterans (Image: Sandra Rowse)

It started on South Street’s junction with Arcade place at 10.30am and finished at Tollgate House, Romford.

Army cadets (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Despite the heat, smiles could be seen from all the participants in uniform.

The mayor speaks with the Royal Naval Association Standard Bearers (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Earlier in the week on Monday (June 19), the Armed Forces flag was raised during a ceremony outside the town hall.

Veterans from the Royal Naval Association (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Mayor of Havering, Councillor Stephanie Nunn, said: “It is an honour to raise the flag today in dedication of our armed forces and it serves as a reminder of the continued contribution of our troops.

“From those currently serving, to veterans, cadets and service families, the sacrifice, hard work and courage our armed forces show in risking their lives to keep us safe should never be forgotten.”

Councillor Stephanie Nunn thanked all those who serve and who are still serving (Image: Sandra Rowse)

“We are proud to raise the Armed Forces flag in recognition of all our heroes involved in past and present conflicts – from RAF Hornchurch where so many pilots became national heroes in both world wars, to Black, Asian and minority ethnic personnel from commonwealth nations.

“Havering’s appreciation for the armed forces remains as strong as ever, and flying this flag in addition to the Armed Forces Day Parade marks our support to all servicemen and servicewomen across the United Kingdom.”