People are being given the opportunity to show their support for the Armed Forces across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in the build up to a national event.

The Armed Forces Day flag relay got underway in Bodmin yesterday (Tuesday) and will travel through various places including Newquay, Fowey, Penzance, Torpoint and Truro.

Bodmin Mayor Phil Cooper transported the flag through the town’s streets ahead of Armed Forces Day, which is taking place in Falmouth on Saturday, June 24.

The flag was delivered to Bodmin Keep Cornwall’s Army Museum where staff, volunteers, veterans and community groups assembled for the flag relay ceremony. Bodmin is one of 10 community events across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to host an official flag relay ceremony.

The flag symbolises public support for the Armed Forces men and women, past and present and the difficult job that they do. 

The flag relay ceremony will be staged at Fowey Town Quay on Tuesday, April 25 at 2pm, in Helston at Grylls Monument on Wednesday, May 10 at 11am and on the Isles of Scilly at the Star Castle Hotel on Tuesday, May 16 at 11am.

The Armed Forces Day flag relay will be held at the Land’s End landmark on Tuesday, May 23 at 11am, Launceston Town Square on Friday, June 2 at 10.30am and at RAF St Mawgan on Monday, June 5 at 2pm.

The flag relay ceremony will be staged in Penzance at St John’s Hall on Monday, June 12 at 11am, HMS Raleigh in Torpoint on Friday, June, 16 at 10am, Gyllyngvase Beach in Falmouth on Monday, June 19 at 9.45am and The Army Reserve Centre in Truro on Wednesday, June 21 at 11am.

Regional Air Officer for the South-West of England, Air Commodore, Polly Perkins, CBE says; “Events like these help the Armed Forces to thrive knowing that we have the support of the very community that we serve. The fact communities across Cornwall are involved in the relay and intend to fly the flag is a real demonstration that they take pride in the Armed Forces and feel confident in our ability to turn our hand to almost any situation,” she said.

Cornwall’s Lord Lieutenant, Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE, veterans, cadets, serving military personnel and school children from St Petrocs Primary School will attend the ‘handing over’ ceremony.

Bodmin Town Mayor Phil Cooper says; “It is a huge honour to be presented with this special flag and be part of this national event. 

“It is a real privilege for the town which is steeped in military history. 

“Bodmin Keep which until 2012 was a recruiting base for the army and is still home to The Light Infantry Association is the perfect location to begin the tour.” 

This year’s Armed Forces Day National Event, will be centred in Falmouth on Saturday, June 24 and will provide the stage for the whole UK to show support for the Armed Forces community.

The town will play proud host to a packed programme of events and activities including a military parade, marching bands, military displays, live music, flying displays and fireworks.

It is expected to be one of the most stirring and evocative programmes of public shows ever staged in Cornwall – its backdrop the world’s third largest natural harbour and Henry Vlll’s sea fort Pendennis Castle.

The event website will be updated regularly to show the full programme as arrangements are confirmed.

The plans include a spectacular Military Village showcasing vehicles, equipment and interactive displays.

A full military parade through the streets of Falmouth involving regular and reserve personnel from all three services, cadets and veterans.

Entertainment, activities and displays throughout the town.

Opportunities to meet with armed forces charities and organisations to find out about their work and the support they can provide.

A chance to see air force, army and naval assets close up. 

Air displays over the stunning views of Falmouth Bay.

A Proms style music concert at the iconic Pendennis Castle to celebrate and thank our armed forces.

Fireworks over Falmouth Harbour to round off proceedings.