Thousands pay respects at Cleethorpes’ Armed Forces Day

19 July 2022

Under fine skies over Armed Forces weekend, Cleethorpes’ seafront was host to thousands of people paying their respects to UK Armed Forces, and SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity was there.

With a prominent pitch in Pier Gardens, the SSAFA stall was a magnet for many keen to learn more about the great work carried out by the UK’s oldest – at 137 years – tri-service military charity.

SSAFA Lincolnshire Branch, Divisional Secretary for Grimsby and Cleethorpes Division, Mark Trainor – who saw service in the Falklands War and is a Royal Navy veteran – said: “Armed Forces Day, in fact the entire Armed Forces Week, is an opportunity for the public to show its gratitude to all veterans and those currently serving who have done so much to ensure our safety and provide much-needed support when necessary, including during the recent pandemic.

“It’s also a chance to not only catch up with old friends from the local Armed Forces’ community, including those whom SSAFA has helped, but also to meet new people – including potential volunteers – to let them know about the amazing work SSAFA does day in and day out for veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces, and their families.”

Mark added that anyone wishing to learn more about SSAFA – including how to volunteer, fundraise, donate, or access its services – should visit ssafa.org.uk/lincolnshire.