Sun shines on glorious Armed Forces Day

THOUSANDS TURN OUT FOR A DAY OF CELEBRATION

- HERALD REPORTER

VISITORS and residents turned up in their thousands to cheer service personnel past and present in a week-long celebration in Plymouth, which culminated in the spectacular Armed Forces Day on Saturday.

Held in association with international defence company Babcock, it was a real opportunity for a city with a proud military history to come together and celebrate.

The week opened on Monday 24 June with an official ceremonial raising of the Armed Forces flag outside Plymouth Guildhall; followed by a two-day British Army recruitment event with hands-on activities, vehicles and a climbing wall. 29 Commando Regiment RA and a team of Ammunition Technicians were also present with a display of equipment.

The sun shone for the participants and spectators of the Strength of Spirit Games Rehabilitation Triathlon, hosted by the Royal Navy, sponsored by AECOM and The Royal Marines Charity. The city welcomed nearly 150 service personnel on recovery duties, and veterans, to take part in the swim, bike and row challenge with teams from the USA and the Netherlands, taking full advantage of the stunning art-deco Tinside Lido and view over Plymouth Hoe.

New for this year, the Plymouth School Sports Partnership Junior Rowing Challenge saw 120 children competing. The event, organised with delivery partners South West Highways and Plymouth Active, was a huge success.