Today Andrew Rosindell M.P. was joined in Romford town centre by local Councillors and Dagenham & Rainham M.P., Jon Cruddas, to celebrate Armed Forces weekend.
Paratroopers, Army, Navy and Royal Air Force Cadets marched through South Street in the Town Centre, accompanied by a marching band and members of the Romford, Elm Park, and Hornchurch Royal British Legion.
Following the march, Mayor of Havering and Residents’ Association Cllr., Brian Eagling, gave a speech praising the work of our Armed Forces, and also took the opportunity to appoint a new ‘Mayor’s cadet’ for 2015-16. (The Mayor’s Cadet accompanies the incumbent Mayor to make sure they are protected at all times.)
The parade was also attended by the regional Royal Town Crier, Tony Appleton, who was present with his bell and livery.
Fantastic weather brought a record turnout, with over 5000 spectators estimated to have attended.
In addition to marching through the town centre, the Royal British Legion - which mainly works providing assistance to ex-Servicemen and women - also ran a charity stall. Along with the Mayor’s chosen charity, First Step, and the Disabled Armed Forces Association, it is estimated that together, they raised over £5000.
Following the event Andrew spoke highly of our armed forces:
“I definitely feel that since the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, respect for our Armed Forces has increased to record levels. They’re our first line of defence against threats of all kinds from right around the world, and it is right that we honour their service to Queen and Country with Armed Forces Day. The people of Romford and Havering salute the servicemen and women who have sacrificed so much to defend freedom.”