War veterans save the day for town gala

Organisers of the twin towns’ fun day were concerned that the long-established event could face an uncertain future as they were hitby spiralling costs following a change in marshalling arrangments.

But Fylde Veterans, a group of ex-servicemen led by Fylde councillor Ed Nash, have volunteered their services for Club Day on June 8, to the great delight of the organising committee.

And the veterans, who helped with marshalling at Lytham’s St George’s parade last month and will be on duty at this weekend’s St Annes Triathlon, are keen to get involved with other similar events across the area.

Coun Nash said: “We are delighted to do anything we can to help. The club day and carnival events are a vital part of the Fylde’s heritage.

“We are keen to do all we can and if needed at any of the club day or similar events we would be happy to turn out.”

This year’s Kirkham and Wesham Club Day parade will for the first time see the organisers having to take prime responsibility for marshalling and road closures as police concentrate on dealing with revellers in the evening.

Organisers were concerned that the increased costs of marshalling and barriers could put a real strain on their finances and lead to possible question marks over the future of the event.

But chairman Steve Cross said the Fylde Veterans’ involvement would make a vital difference.

“We were left facing possibly hiring some marshalls from a road safety company and we feared that could cost anything up to £1,000,” said Mr Cross.

“But Coun Nash has said he could make 10 men available and is to come to our next committee meeting next Tuesday to talk through the practicalities.

“We are so grateful to him and his colleagues.”

Fylde Veterans is described as a community interest group which is the trading arm of the charity Veterans For Fylde.

Both organisations are based in Richnond Road, St Annes and Coun Nash, who served in the Army for 31 years himself, is manager of the charity.

Follow us on twitter @The_Gazette and like our page on facebook to keep up with all the latest news.