Join us for an Armed Forces Day Parade in Bedford Town Centre on Sunday 30 June for a memorable celebration honouring our serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and military charities.

This special event will feature a grand parade, vibrant stalls, engaging activities, and an impressive display of military vehicles.

The Parade starts from De Parys Avenue at 10.20am, along the High Street, around St. Paul's Square finishing at Harpur Square where the stalls and entertainment will be until 4pm. We urge residents to join us from the High Street.

One of the highlights of the day will be the granting of the Freedom of the Borough to a distinguished unit from Chicksands. Bedford Borough Council will bestow this esteemed and prestigious honour, allowing the unit's personnel to march proudly through the streets of the town centre on ceremonial occasions with colours flying, bands playing, drums beating, and bayonets fixed.

Laura Church, Chief Executive of Bedford Borough Council, expressed the significance of this event: "The parade is a very special occasion and I encourage everyone to come and join the troops’ celebration by lining the streets to cheer them along their way.

“We invite everyone to come together in Bedford Town Centre to show your support for our armed forces and to celebrate this historic occasion. Your presence will make this day even more special for those who have dedicated their lives to serving our country.”

The parade will feature a diverse assembly of serving members, reservists, veterans, and representatives from various military charities. Following the parade, there will be an array of stalls and activities suitable for all ages, providing an opportunity for the community to engage with and support our armed forces. The Musical performances in Harpur Square are sponsored by BedfordBID/Love Bedford. Look out for May Blossom Vintage Songbird, Lissie Allsopp, Ampthill Town Band and more to be confirmed.

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