A flag-raising ceremony and Drumhead service will mark the start of Armed Forces Week later this month.

The Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr David Leeks is inviting all service personnel including cadets, serving personnel and veterans, as well as members of the public to attend the service which will take place on Monday 19 June 2023 at 10am at the Civic Offices. The event is being organised by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in partnership with Basingstoke and Overton Royal British Legion.

The flag will be raised by a cadet from 443 (Basingstoke Squadron) and will fly all week leading up to the 15th annual Armed Forces Day on Saturday 24 June.

This will be followed by what is believed to be the first Drumhead service in the borough by Old Basing Corps of Drums who will use side drums to build an altar, before the drums are blessed by the Mayor’s Chaplain and Spiritual Adviser, The Reverend Steve McKay.

Originating in the 1700’s, a Drumhead service is a traditional Army service, representing a number of different Christian churches, held in the field in which an altar is formed from drums.

Each day of Armed Forces Week will highlight different parts of the British military, including service personnel, their equipment and their roles. Reserves Day is being celebrated on Wednesday 21 June 2023.

Mayor Cllr Leeks said: “Armed Forces Week is a chance for us all to show support for those in the armed forces community, from serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets, and provides a much-valued morale boost.

"It would be great to see as many people as possible at the service to demonstrate our support and respect for the contribution they and their families make to our communities."

For more information on the event go to https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/armed-forces-day-2023