Redcar and Cleveland honours the Armed Forces with a full programme of events

REDCAR and Cleveland residents are once again invited to come together to honour the service and sacrifice of Armed Forces personnel past, present and future with a full programme of events to mark Armed Forces Day 2026.

The event, organised by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council in partnership with the Royal British Legion Redcar Branch and Redcar Rotary Club, will take place on Saturday 27 June on Redcar High Street, centred around the King Edward VII Memorial Clock.

The day will begin with a parade of serving military personnel, veterans and cadets, marching along the High Street before the official opening ceremony and raising of the colours. This will be followed by a welcome from the Royal British Legion and a civic address from the Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, a service of prayers, alongside the sounding of the Last Post, a two-minute silence and the National Anthem.

Throughout the day, there will be a variety of entertainment and activities for all ages. Visitors can expect live music and vocal performances, military pipes and drums, dance displays, a cadet drill competition and activities for children. The High Street will also host a range of stalls from military organisations and local charities, offering information, support and opportunities to get involved.

Special awards for army, air force and sea cadets will be presented by the Council's Armed Forces's Champion, Cllr Dave Taylor, at 10.45am.

The event will close with the traditional Evening Colours ceremony, offering a moment of reflection to round off the celebrations.

Programme of events:

• 10.00am Parade forms on Redcar High Street (Moore Street to King Edward VII Clock) and welcome from Royal British Legion
• 10.05am Raising of the Colours
• 10.15am Civic welcome, Last Post, two-minute silence and National Anthem
• 10.25am Parade march off
• 10.30am Local Vocals Community Choir
• 10.45am Armed Forces Champion presentation
• 11.00am Cleveland Army Cadets Corps of Drums
• 11.30am Imaginarium Dance Theatre
• 11.45am The Lipsticks Trio
• 12.45pm George Robinson - Redcar's Crooner
• 1.15pm Cadet drill competition
• 2.15pm Drill competition results and dance
• 3.00pm Cleveland Army Cadets Corps of Drums
• 3.30pm Evening Colours ceremony

The event will conclude at 4pm.

The Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Cllr Ceri Cawley, said: "Armed Forces Day is a deeply important occasion for our borough and a chance for us all to come together to honour the bravery, dedication and sacrifice of those who serve and have served. It is always a privilege to be part of such a moving event, where we reflect, remember and show our gratitude as a community."

Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, Cllr Alec Brown, said: "Armed Forces Day reflects the deep respect and appreciation we hold for those who serve and have served our country. It is inspiring to see our communities come together in such strong support, and this event highlights the important role we all play in recognising the contribution of our Armed Forces. I would encourage residents and visitors alike to join us for what promises to be a meaningful and memorable day."

Cllr Dave Taylor said: "Armed Forces Day is a proud and important occasion for Redcar and Cleveland, giving us the opportunity to recognise and thank those who serve and have served our country. This annual event brings the community together to reflect, celebrate and show our appreciation. We are delighted to once again host a full day of activities that honour our Armed Forces and provide something for everyone to enjoy.

"We are proud to be introducing a special award ceremony to recognise some of the great achievements of those who serve our country."

Nominations and further information for the cadet awards can found at New Awards for cadets on special day - nominations needed | Redcar and Cleveland