RESIDENTS are being invited to show their support for the town’s armed forces community at celebration this weekend

The event, which is being hosted on Saturday, May 13 rather than the usual June 24 event for national Armed Forces Day, will run from 10am to 4pm in Church Square.

At 11.50am the public are encouraged to turn out in force to show their appreciation of their town’s servicemen and women of the past and present for their dedication to duty and to their country.

A parade of local veterans, as well as armed forces and cadets will march into Church Square ahead of a short service at noon, followed by a route through the town centre, led by the mayor of St Helens councillor Dave Banks.

Commanding officer of St Helens Sea Cadets, Anthony Bull RNR, said: “This is a great opportunity for the people of St Helens to line the streets, celebrate our heroes and show them the respect they deserve; please do come out to join us in this celebration.”

A field gun from the 103 Regiment Royal Artillery Reserves will also be on display at the celebration, as well as vintage military vehicles and a free climbing wall to test military fitness.

Representatives from The Royal Navy, The British Army and The Royal Air Force will be on hand to meet with the public, as well as stalls with information by The Royal British Legion, SSAFA Forces Help, The Royal Marines Association, The Naval Families Federation and SAMS St Helens Armed Forces Hub.