SALFORD PAYS TRIBUTE TO MARK THE START OF ARMED FORCES WEEK

Salford has joined the nation in paying tribute to past and present members of the armed forces and their families today (Monday 20 June) to mark the start of Armed Forces Week.

Dozens of people attended a ceremony at Swinton Civic Centre where the armed forces flag was raised to the sound of a lone piper.

City Mayor Paul Dennett said respect for the armed forces community was deeply embedded in both Salford and the nation and that he was proud Salford City Council's support for reservists and the armed forces community has been recognised with a gold employers award from the Ministry of Defence.

Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, said:

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"We pay tribute to those serving, veterans and their families for the sacrifices they have made and continue to make and to our cadets and the adult volunteers who support them and to the reservist,"

Ceremonial Mayor of Salford Councillor Ann-Marie Humphreys said:

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"This is a very special week to salute our armed forces who carry out acts of bravery daily to protect our country. Salford joins with the nation in celebrating them."

Sir Warren Smith, KCVO, who will retire as Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester next month said:

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"I think about the men and women prepared to serve and die to protect my freedom. Thank you."

Salford City Council and Salford Veterans Association are working together to create a new armed forces memorial garden.

The garden next to Swinton Cenotaph will celebrate the lives of those in the armed forces who have passed away and provide a space where people can relax and reflect.

It will feature four commemoration benches for Salford people who have received the Victoria Cross. They are Lance Serjeant Joseph Woodall, Sergeant Joseph Lister, Private William Norman and Private Henry George Crandon.

Four flagpoles will proudly display the armed services flags.

Councillors Margaret Morris and Barry Warner are armed forces champions at Salford City Council.

Councillor Morris said:

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"We are proud to work with the Salford Veterans Association to provide this memorial garden and community space. It will be an important space for our armed forces community and we'd like to thank them for all they do for us."

Councillor Warner added:

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"When the memorial garden is opened we will have a fitting ceremony. Our fallen heroes will never be forgotten."

Mixed Photos Courtesy Of: Councillor Maria Brabiner