PREPARATIONS are under way for a week-long event, which will see Bolton unite to honour members of the Armed Forces past, present and future.

To mark the start of Armed Forces Week, there will be a short service in Victoria Square from 10.30am on Monday, June 24, led by the Vicar of Bolton, the Rev Canon Dr Chris Bracegirdle, and the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Hilary Fairclough.

The Armed Forces Flag will then be raised to honour the town's military personnel.

Following the service, veterans are invited to a special pea and pie lunch in the Town Hall, which must be booked in advance.

Among the guests will be Major Rawcliffe and Captain Illingworth from Bolton 216 Battery the Royal Artillery.

Armed Forces Week will culminate with Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 29, when there is a jam-packed itinerary of events in Bolton.

The Mayor will lay a wreath at the war memorial on behalf of the people of the town.

Bolton’s 216 Battery Royal Artillery will be present with military vehicle and guns on display, gazebos on Victoria Square with information and sales as well as free fun and games for all ages.

Cadets will also be present, with the three local groups competing against each other to win the Centenary Cadets Challenge shield.

Emergency vehicles will be on display for children to interact with, and staff from Bolton NHS Foundation Trust will be taking part in a tug of war competition.

Throughout the course of the afternoon, Kevan Williams of Bolton FM will be compèring on the main stage, as people from all walks of life come together to honour members of the Armed Forces past and present, to raise awareness, show support, and express thanks.

The closing ceremony is scheduled to take place at about 3pm.

For catering purposes, veterans are required to book their place to attend the lunch on June 24. To attend, contact the Mayor’s Office on 01204 331090 or email mayorsoffice@bolton.gov.uk.