Swindon is set to honour its Armed Forces community in a spectacular celebration at Lydiard Park this summer, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The event, hosted by Swindon Borough Council with support from local armed forces organisations, promises to be a day filled with remembrance, appreciation, and community spirit.
Taking place on Saturday, 28th June, from 11am to 4pm, Armed Forces Day will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including stalls, a funfair, performances from local dance troupes, and a mini concert. The day will also serve as the grand finale to a week-long celebration beginning on Monday, 23rd June, during which people across the country will be showing their appreciation for the Armed Forces community.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, expressed his enthusiasm for this year’s event: “I am really pleased we will once again mark Armed Forces Day in Swindon, and this year will be particularly poignant with it being the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Armed Forces Day is incredibly important as it gives us all a chance to show our support for the Armed Forces community, from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans, and cadets. We want this to be the best Swindon Armed Forces event we have ever held, and I would encourage local groups, schools, and members of the public to get involved on the day.”
The organising committee is calling on local schools, community groups, Scouts, and Brownie groups to take part in the celebrations. Those interested in contributing to the event can email Nav Hasan at nhasan@swindon.gov.uk with ‘Swindon Armed Forces Day Committee 2025’ in the subject line.
Councillor Junab Ali, Swindon Borough Council’s Member Champion for the Armed Forces, highlighted the significance of the occasion: “As a nation, we owe a great debt to our Armed Forces, so I am delighted the Council has stepped in to help organise a day where we can all show our appreciation for the sacrifices they have made and continue to make on our behalf. This will be a fantastic celebration for Swindon and our local communities, so if you want to take part on the day, the organising committee would love to hear from you.”
Major Luke Bowdidge of B COMPANY 7 RIFLES echoed this sentiment, saying: “We consider it a real privilege and a pleasure to take part in Armed Forces Day alongside veterans, youth, and community groups on such a historic commemoration. We’re really grateful to the Council for hosting the event at Lydiard Park and look forward to sharing and celebrating the sacrifices of our Armed Forces, which have given us the freedoms and values we continue to hold dear today.”
With the promise of a packed schedule and a strong sense of community spirit, Swindon’s Armed Forces Day looks set to be an unmissable event.
Whether attending to pay respects, learn more about the Armed Forces, or simply enjoy the festivities, all are welcome to join in this important day of recognition and celebration.
