By James Johnson

Last updated at 13:19, Monday, 02 July 2012

Heroes from across Cumbria were honoured as shoppers got a glimpse into life as a soldier in one of the world’s toughest military units.

Major Jos Mark welcomes people to the military parades for Armed Forces Day

The work of the men and women who serve the country was highlighted during Armed Forces Day in Carlisle city centre.

Shoppers united with servicemen and women along with military veterans to mark the occasion, the culmination of a week of events to show appreciation for the work of soldiers, air crews and navy personnel.

Veterans of the renowned British Army unit the Gurkhas, from Nepal, displayed some of the regiment’s traditions, courtesy of the Carlisle Gurkha and Nepalese Association.

Others represented included the Royal Air Force Association and charity Help for Heroes.

Passing shoppers gathered along with those who had come along specially for the occasion to watch demonstrations by the forces, a squad drill competition, and the presentation of a Citation of Appreciation by the Mayor of Carlisle.

Major Graeme Hynds, of the Armed Forces Careers Office in Carlisle, said: “There’s a lot of ex-servicemen and Territorial Army members today.

“It’s a really relaxed atmosphere.”

As well as demonstrations throughout the day, the forces had set up information stalls for those wanting to find out more, and advice for those who had ex-forces relatives who might need help.

Norman Tolson was in the city centre to see the demonstrations.

He said: “I’m enjoying seeing something different and the recruitment bits were my favourite. It’s a good to get people into the centre and it’s good for the Armed Forces.”

As well as this event, in the lead-up to Saturday’s special day the Ministry of Defence had encouraged councils, businesses and homes to show their support by flying special flags celebrating the day.

Hundreds turned out in the city centre to see the formal flag-raising ceremony in Carlisle, carried out by two members of the Air Training Corps.

In west Cumbria, from, war veterans to teenage cadets, Workington’s Armed Forces Day parade brought together every generation in support of the military.

Organisers branded the fourth annual march through the streets as the best yet, as North Tyneside Pipe Band added a sense of occasion by leading the procession.

Hundreds of supporters lined the streets, before a drumhead service by Canon Bryan Rowe at the war memorial in Vulcan Park.
Canon Rowe said: “From the cadets to the serving personnel and the veterans, thank you to all the men and women who have served our country.

“Now is the time to remember those away on active service. We hold them in our hearts and pray for peace, freedom and justice.”

The event was organised by Workington Royal British Legion steward Pat Lavin and bar worker Lesley Jackson.

Mrs Jackson, 49, of Richmond Croft, Westfield, who was part of the Olympic torch relay for her charity work, was joined in the parade by her son, Lance Corporal Jamie Richardson, 23.

Her other son, Matthew, is also in the army. She said: “The band made the parade very special. It was great to see so many people supporting the event too. Each year the parade is growing and it’s becoming a big fixture in the Workington calendar.”

Veteran Eddie Dixon, 64, who served in Aden, Cyprus and Northern Ireland as part of the Royal Dragoon Guards, said: “It’s important that we remember those who have paid the ultimate price while fighting for our country.

“It’s time to make people aware of the hardships others have gone through in the name of Great Britain.

“It’s not right just to remember for one day in November, that’s why Armed Forces Day is important.”

Workington MP Tony Cunningham and the mayors of Allerdale and Workington Carole Armstrong and Andrew Lawson attended.

Both the sea and air cadets were part of the parade, which began on Pow Street and followed a route along Finkle Street and Vulcan’s Lane before a service with Cleator Moor Brass Band in Vulcan Park.

Sea Cadet Charles Peat, 14, of Moorclose, said: “Our freedom is down to the men and women who have fought for our country.
“It’s important to remember those who died for us.”

Entertainment was staged at the Royal British Legion, in St John’s Court.

First published at 11:25, Monday, 02 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk