City displays for veterans’ event.

This year’s Armed Forces Day will be marked with events in Victoria, Chamberlain and Centenary Squares, running from 11am to 5pm on Saturday 28th June.

The annual event, which provides an opportunity for the public to recognise the outstanding contribution made by the Armed Forces, starts at 11am in Victoria Square where veterans’ associations such as the Royal British Legion, Help for Heroes and the War Widows’ Association of Great Britain will be running stalls and displays about their organisations.

There will also be boats in a large water inflatable, a paintball range provided by the Army cadets and a children’s workshop where youngsters can show their creative side by making pirate hats.

Additionally, there will be performances by Birmingham Sherbourne Sea Cadet Band and displays of Gatka, a form of martial art from India.

Entertainment in Chamberlain Square starts at 12pm with a full stage programme including ‘Forces Sweetheart’ Fiona Harrison performing songs from the 1940s, Paul Kaspa with his George Formby routine and rib-tickling selection of songs, and The Military Choir, who will treat the crowds to sea shanties and national songs.

The traditional Drum Head Service will take place in Centenary Square from 12.45pm to 1.15pm, when the Army, Navy and RAF regiments will march alongside the veterans associations, led by the Life Guards Band, for a service and prayers. Following the service, 202 Field Hospital will give out medals to soldiers returning from a tour of duty in Afghanistan.

The afternoon will be brought to a close at 4.45pm by the Band of the RAF with Beat the Retreat, a real spectacle not to be missed.

Birmingham’s cultural and academic attractions are hosting a range of events throughout the year to commemorate the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War commemorations. A list of planned events is available at www.birmingham.gov.uk/ww1.