No Armed Services day this year – Leader of Havering Council.

Sadly this year there will be no Armed Forces Day. Havering’s leader of the Council, Councillor Damian White writes.

Whilst it is disappointing that we cannot celebrate this year’s Armed Forces Day on Saturday 27th of June with a parade like we usually do, the safety of residents must always come first.

We are incredibly proud of our armed forces and it’s important that we still pay tribute to them as best we can, so Havering Council will be marking the day with an online celebration of readings and performances.

A virtual flag-raising ceremony will take place prior to the day to mark the celebrations and show the Council’s support..

Each year this special occasion receives an incredible response from people across Havering, and whilst we must celebrate differently this year, our appreciation for our armed forces in keeping us safe remains as strong as ever.

As more shops open as the lockdown eases, we must continue to keep ourselves and others safe by avoiding public transport, where possible, to free up the limited space available to those who have no alternative way to travel.

For many of us going to the high street is a welcome return to normality, but please remember that for some, who have been self-isolating or shielding, this is a daunting prospect. They need us to respect their space, both inside and outside the shops. COVID-19 is still out there, so keeping to the 2-metre rule remains crucial.