Attention all! Roll up for Armed Forces Week

It is all to do with Blackpool’s ninth annual Armed Forces Week.

It begins today and as well as an array of events and shows, features a real-life Sergeant Major stationed in St John’s Square to put any visitors who are feeling fit enough – and brave enough – through a training drill.

The annual celebration of the armed forces has been a fixture in the resort since 2006 and attracts thousands of visitors.

On until Saturday, the focus this year is on the town centre, with a variety of events planned.

“It promises to be a superb event and will allow visitors to town to take part and appreciate what the week is all about,” said Coun Chris Ryan, chairman of the Armed Forces Week Committee.

“We have events, concerts and shows going that will showcase the very best the town and the armed forces have to offer.

“I think it will be a real treat for everyone and I hope people flock to Blackpool and salute and honour our veterans and service personnel.”

Armed Forces Day itself - on Saturday June 27 - promises “an interactive, fun-filled and educational day” of events at St John’s Square and on the Promenade, featuring a variety of military vehicles and a Spitfire - as well as the shouting Sergeant Major.

To kick off the week, the official Armed Forces Week flag will be raised at the town hall today, ahead of an evening of entertainment entitled ‘Music for Heroes’ at the Opera House.

Events continue throughout the week and include a tea dance at the Tower, a Service of Dedication, and a Grand Gala dinner.

The full programme of events is at www.armedforcesweek.co.uk