Yearly Armed Forces Week celebrations are taking place across Oldham this week.

The week began with a flag-raising at Oldham Civic Centre on Monday, June 20.

Culminating in Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 25, the week of celebrations is a chance for residents to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to service families, veterans, and cadets.

Cllr Amanda Chadderton, leader of Oldham Council, paid tribute to British service people: “Oldham has a strong armed forces heritage, and as a council, we’re proud of our men and women who serve in the armed forces.

“Armed Forces Day is an opportunity to show our gratitude and honour our entire armed forces community. I look forward to seeing many residents enjoying the planned activities on Saturday.”

In Oldham, the Armed Forces flag will fly above the civic centre until Monday, June 27.

Events

There will also be several events hosted by Royal British Legion branches across the borough.

Lees

Lees will be celebrating on Saturday, June 25.

With celebrations taking place at 1 Princess Street, OL4 5AG from 12.30pm, the day is set to be filled with live music from the Harper Brothers, a Freddie Mercury tribute act, and Spark.

A Lads and Lasses boat race and Tri-Services bush tucker trial are also planned.

Money raised will go towards the Poppy Appeal.

Royton

Royton’s Royal British Legion branch will be hosting an event at The Halfway House, on Rochdale Road, between 2 and 5pm on Armed Forces day.

Open to all, and with no entry charge, there will be music, face painting, a raffle and cake.

Oldham Council is already signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant, which encourages local communities to support services that help integrate armed forces personnel back into civilian life.

Those who want to get involved with the day can find resources on the Armed Forces Day website.