Armed forces day spectacular in Denbighshire deemed a success

An estimated 10,000 people visited this year’s North Wales Armed Forces Day extravaganza held in Bodelwyddan Castle today (Saturday), with organisers hailing the event “a major success”.

The Council worked closely with the armed forces organisations to put on a programme of activities, which included a parachute display from the RAF Falcons and fly-pasts from the Spitfire and the Griffin.

There were also displays from the East Coast FMX Bike team, the Rockwood Display team, Anglesey Hussars re-enactment team, as well as parades and performances from the Royal Welsh Band and the Army Cadet Corps of Drums and Prestatyn Squadron ATC Band.

Councillor Hugh Irving, Denbighshire’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “ The Council has been extremely honoured to co-ordinate this year’s activities, in conjunction with the armed forces organisations and the Welsh Government.

“The free annual event has been set up to recognise the commitment and dedication of all of the armed forces organisations.

“We are delighted with the response.  The large crowds took advantage of the warm, sunny weather and the glorious setting to come and see the various demonstrations, exhibitions and displays. Many people also took the opportunity to visit the Castle and its exhibitions during the day”.

“The main car park filled early on and an overspill car park was also filled very quickly, with visitor numbers exceeding our expectations.

The mantle has now been passed to representatives of Cyngor Gwynedd  who will co-ordinate the 2017 event on behalf of the North Wales authorities.