Stonehenge
The city of Salisbury has been chosen to host the Armed Forces Day National Event in 2019, which is a major boost for the city and its recovery following the incident almost four months ago.
This prestigious national event will be hosted by Wiltshire and Salisbury City Councils and will be a fitting way to recognise and thank the military personnel and emergency services that continue to support the city’s recovery; particularly the specialist clean-up required at the sites affected.
It will also provide an opportunity to welcome troops relocating from Germany as part of the Army Basing Programme. A total of 4,000 service personnel and their families will move to Salisbury Plain by 2020, making Wiltshire host to the largest number of Army personnel in the country.
Baroness Scott of Bybrook OBE, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Salisbury has been selected to host National Armed Forces Day next year. Wiltshire is proud to be a military county and the Armed Forces and their families make up a significant proportion of Wiltshire’s population. This is a fantastic opportunity, on behalf of the whole country, to recognise and celebrate what they do.
“It will also be an opportunity to all say thank you for the work they have undertaken in Salisbury to ensure that the city is safe and can return to normal.
“The event is the national focal point for Armed Forces Day celebrations and recognises the hard work and sacrifice of those that serve this country.
“During recent months in Salisbury, we have seen how strong the links are between the city and our Armed Forces community. To be selected to host the Armed Forces Day National Event in 2019 is a wonderful way to thank our service men and women for their contribution and for the job they do to keep us all safe.”
Alistair Cunningham, chair of Salisbury recovery group said: “We put in a bid to host National Armed Forces Day in 2019 recognising the positive impact that this event would have in relation to the city’s recovery. We know that the recovery will take time and that we need to continue to rebuild confidence in the city as a place that’s safe to visit. This event will be a huge highlight for next year and we are looking at a programme of events in the lead up to next June to attract tourists and visitors.”
Cllr Matthew Dean, leader of Salisbury City Council, said: “We are delighted to hear that Salisbury will host next year’s event and we will be working with Wiltshire Council to ensure that it is a huge success.
“The city of Salisbury has always held the Armed Forces in extremely high regard and hosts an annual Armed Forces Day in recognition of the role they play. Hosting the national event is a great opportunity to thank the Armed Forces and bring the local community together.”
The National Armed Forces Day 2019 takes place on Saturday 29 June. It will be held at Hudson’s Field and the city centre. The planning for this major event will get underway immediately.
