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Armed Forces Day brings community together in Loughborough’s Queen’s Park – Latest News – News Updates
Published: Mon 29th June, 2026
Residents and visitors came together in Queen’s Park in Loughborough on Saturday, June 27 to celebrate Armed Forces Day.
The event, hosted by Charnwood Borough Council, featured military displays, live performances, community stalls and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
Visitors enjoyed entertainment from a range of performers, including Charlotte Beaver, the Nottingham Military Wives Choir and the Junkyard Cats jazz band.
A moment of reflection was held at 1.30pm to honour the contribution of serving personnel, veterans, reservists, military families and all members of the Armed Forces community.
Activities during the event included displays of military vehicles and equipment, poppy-making sessions for children, Union Jack-themed crafts and performances from stilt walkers.
Cllr Liz Blackshaw, Charnwood Borough Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Charnwood.
“The event provided an opportunity for residents of all ages to recognise the dedication and sacrifice of our serving personnel, veterans, reservists and military families, while also enjoying a fantastic day of entertainment and community spirit.
“Thank you to everyone who attended, performed, volunteered and helped organise the event. Their support ensured it was a fitting tribute to our Armed Forces community and a memorable occasion for all involved.”
The event formed part of the national Armed Forces Day programme and was supported by a £1,250 grant from the Ministry of Defence, which is helping to fund Armed Forces Day events across the UK.
Earlier in the week, a special flag-raising service took place on Monday, 22 June, at the Council’s Southfields offices.
The service included short addresses by the Deputy Lieutenant Mr Michael Pearson DL and Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr Colin Hamilton, a poem reading by the Mayoress of Charnwood, Mrs Emma Lowe and a prayer by the RBL Chaplain, Rev’d Emily Sharman.
The ceremony was concluded by Sub Lieutenant (SCC) Paul Browning Royal Naval Reserve, Loughborough Sea Cadets Corps raising the specially commissioned Armed Forces Flag at 10.15am.
For more information about future events in Charnwood, visit www.discovercharnwood.co.uk.
Photos from the event can be found at www.charnwood.gov.uk/AFD.
To stay updated on upcoming Council events, subscribe to email alerts at www.charnwood.gov.uk/alerts or follow @CharnwoodBC on social media.