Hopes Armed Forces Day will inspire Teesside's younger generation
Thousands will be celebrating military personnel past, present and future today
Veterans in Teesside says today's all about showcasing the Armed Forces in the hopes it'll inspire the younger generation.
Thousands will be celebrating military personnel past, present and future.
Eric Howden BEM, president of Redcar's Royal British Legion, served in the British Army for nine years, and he said: "It may encourage people to join the cadet force, which is obviously a stepping stone to the regular services. And we know quite a lot of cadets have gone on and joined the actual service itself and flourished. It's heartwarming to see it."
Eric added that the Armed Forces Day events have gained popularity: "It's gradually increased year by year. When we first started, we didn't get that many and then gradually it built up. And now it's extremely popular. You know, we've got a lot of people, we've got a lot of entertainment going on. So we want the public to come along and enjoy the day."
Redcar & Cleveland Armed Forces Day
Redcar & Cleveland Armed Forces Day 2026, organised by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council in partnership with Royal British Legion Redcar Branch and Redcar Rotary Club, will take place today from 10am on High Street, Redcar – in the area of the King Edward VII Memorial Clock.
There will be entertainment throughout the day with musicians and singers, military pipes and drums, cadet drill displays and competition, and children’s activities for all ages.
Armed Forces Day is the town’s chance to show its appreciation for our Armed Forces – past, present, and future.
The Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Cllr Ceri Cawley, said: “Armed Forces Day is a deeply important occasion for our borough and a chance for us all to come together to honour the bravery, dedication and sacrifice of those who serve and have served.”
Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, Cllr Alec Brown, said: “Armed Forces Day reflects the deep respect and appreciation we hold for those who serve and have served our country. I would encourage residents and visitors alike to join us for what promises to be a meaningful and memorable day.”
Cllr Dave Taylor, Armed Forces Champion said: “Armed Forces Day is a proud and important occasion for Redcar and Cleveland, giving us the opportunity to recognise and thank those who serve and have served our country. We are proud to be introducing a special award ceremony to recognise some of the great achievements of those who serve our country.”
You can find out more about the programme of events on the council website.
Hartlepool Armed Forces Day
Hartlepool Armed Forces Day is to be centered around the National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool from 11am.
There will be free entry to the Museum for Service Personal and Veterans throughout the day with a short parade involving service personnel, veterans and cadets from various units within Hartlepool.
There will be stalls and displays from ex-servicemen and women associations, veterans, bikers as well as members of 8 Rifles, 71 Royal Engineers, 105 Transport Troop Royal Logistic Corps.
Throughout the day there will be music provided by the Hartlepool Brass Band and Creative Minds and adjacent to the event will be a outdoor market. Parking is free.