Bolton Council is leading a packed programme of events to celebrate Armed Forces Week, including the raising of the flag, cadet challenges and a ‘tactical advance to battle’ from Rivington Pike to Victoria Square.

On Monday June 19, the Armed Forces flag will be raised over the Town Hall and there will be a short service in Victoria Square from 10.45am, attended by the Mayor of Bolton.

Later in the week, Armed Forces Day on Saturday June 24 will see a packed programme of activities in Victoria Square.

The day will begin at 11am with Bolton Sea Cadets raising their ensign flown from their mast head. There will then be a short service and a wreath laying ceremony led by the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Roger Hayes. It will be attended by 216 Battery Bolton Artillery; Bolton United Services Veterans Association (established 1906); Royal British Legion, other veteran organisations and Bolton’s Armed Forces Cadets.

The day will include displays from the armed forces and cadets of vehicles and equipment, plus inter cadet challenges.

Live music will be played throughout the day from local cadet bands and charities and local history societies will have stalls and exhibitions on the armed forces, including memorabilia and old photographs. Visitors will also be able to try their skills on a climbing wall, ride a smoothie bike or have a kick-about on a mini football pitch.

A team of service and ex-service men and women from Royal Bolton Hospital will also be carrying out a ‘tactical advance to battle’ from Rivington Pike to Victoria Square.

The day will end with a short ceremony to lower the flag and closing speeches

Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Roger Hayes said: “I am looking forward to leading Bolton’s tribute to those who have served in the armed forces, both past and present,

and seeing all of Bolton represented. Armed Forces Day and Week is an important date in the year's calendar as it gives us all a chance to commemorate all our armed forces who have served in any conflict. I would encourage all Boltonians to show their support and come along to the event.”

For further info, people can visit www.armedforcesday.org.uk