Norfolk community hub joins UK-wide celebrations for Armed Forces Day
Community Sports Foundation hosts event to honour military personnel, but hopes everyone will remember them year round
On Armed Forces Day, thousands across the UK come together to celebrate and honour the nation's armed forces community, including service personnel, reservists, veterans, cadets, and their families.
In Norwich a community Sports Foundation's community hub, The Nest, has organised a special event designed to boost connections and celebrate this community.
Neil Hall, Armed Forces Champion for The Nest, served 13 years with the Royal Navy as a photographer.
"I really enjoyed my time serving, I've carried that trade into my civilian life and I advocate the life to anyone" he said.
He stressed the importance of recognising the contributions of the armed forces, not just on dedicated days but throughout the year:
"It's when we're not fighting, It's when there aren't wars that we're engaged in... That's when we have to keep the support up,
it's more important now than ever, just because they might not be on our TV screens every night, we should still be thinking of them ."
The annual event strives to create a family-friendly atmosphere, encouraging members of the armed forces community and the public to gather and connect.
This year’s event also includes a special appearance from Norwich Citys Adam Drury, who will be involved in the activities throughout the day.
The foundation supports a variety of programmes aimed at improving the physical and mental wellbeing of forces families, cadets, veterans, reservists, and service personnel.
The Nest and hold a Bronze Award for the Defence Employment Recognition Scheme, with hopes of attaining a Silver Award soon.
Neil encourages continued support and recognition for the armed forces, stressing the importance of maintaining public awareness even during times of peace.
The event is free and open to the public, but pre booking tickets is essential.