Armed Forces Day Leeds Saturday 24th June 2017

The Lord Mayor of Leeds addresses the Crowds

The Daisy Belles

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, The Children's Mayor of Leeds and Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire take the Salute

Flight Level 60

The Drumhead Service

Saturday 24th June 2017 saw the annual Armed Forces Day.

With the National Event being held in Liverpool, other towns and cities around the country, held their own tributes.

Various members of the Armed Forces and Veteran's paraded through the city centre. Led by the band of the Air Training Corps, they began outside the City Museum, and marched around the streets, culminating in a salute in Millennium Square. Taken by the Lord Mayor of Leeds and Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, representing the Queen,

In the Square, on a stage, bands entertained the crowds, including the Daisy Belles, a 1940's Tribute group and Flight Level 60 ( a 60's Tribute band made up of Pilots)

Also there were two Aircraft, including a Spitfire, in the Square for visitors to have their picture taken with (me included!).

Later that afternoon, led by the Bishop of Leeds, a Drumhead Service was held. The Origin of the service came about when to improvise an altar the troops used their drums to build one. The flags of the Royal British Legion Standards were draped over them.

The day culminated with the Lord Mayor of Leeds releasing balloons in the Square on behalf of the Royal British Legion.

Photographs (C) Paul Ratcliffe