Visitors invited to pay tribute to forces.

The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is running a full programme of family oriented events on Saturday 28 June 2014 to commemorate and celebrate Armed Forces Day, including a Service of Tribute, a special parade and a flypast.

Armed Forces Day was introduced in the UK six years ago as a day for the nation to show its support and appreciation for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community; including service personnel and their families, veterans and the Cadet Forces. It aims to raise awareness and support for the Armed Forces community and to highlight the outstanding contribution they make to our country in their service throughout the world.

The Arboretum, which is part of The Royal British Legion family of charities, has scheduled a host of activities and displays throughout the day to entertain visitors of all ages, including a circus skills workshop, children’s craft activities, a cadet drill display and a Royal Army Physical Training Corps gym display. Other highlights include a flypast of World War I aircraft, presentation of the Ride to the Wall 2013 cheque and performances from local choirs and a dance troupe.

Managing director Sarah Montgomery said: “Armed Forces Day is about people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to share and remember. We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to the National Memorial Arboretum for this special day and helping them to better understand the contribution made by the Armed Forces community.”

The Arboretum is open daily and is free to enter, although donations are appreciated. For details of the Armed Forces Day programme of events visit: www.thenma.org.uk