Blackpool FC Community Trust column: Showcasing our commitment to the Armed Forces community
Blackpool FC Community Trust has celebrated the work of everyone associated with the Armed Forces.
Blackpool FC Community Trust proudly joined communities across the country in celebrating Armed Forces Week, recognising the dedication, sacrifice and service of serving personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets and military families.
Throughout the week, the Trust showcased its year-round commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community through a range of health, wellbeing and community programmes, alongside participating in events held across the Fylde coast.
Regular activities continued as normal, including the Trust's popular Walk and Talk, Forces Football and weekly Walking Football, all designed to help members of the Armed Forces community stay active, improve their wellbeing and build lasting friendships.
The weekly NAAFI Break also welcomed more than 40 veterans and members of the Armed Forces community, providing a welcoming space to enjoy a brew, a bite to eat and peer support.
Community engagement officer Ian McCleary represented the Trust at a number of events throughout the week.
He hosted an Armed Forces information stand at Houndshill Shopping Centre, helping raise awareness of the support available through the Trust, attended the official Raise the Flag ceremony and delivered basic fieldcraft and military skills training to Highfield Cadets.
Ian also attended the Armed Forces Week Dinner at The Buccaneers and proudly served as a standard bearer during the commemorative service at the Fylde Memorial Arboretum, honouring those who have served their country.
The week concluded with the Trust’s Armed Forces football team taking part in the Armed Forces Tournament at AFC Fylde on Armed Forces Day before joining the wider community at the Armed Forces Day service at Blackpool Cenotaph and War Memorial.
Blackpool FC Community Trust delivers a range of dedicated programmes for the Armed Forces community throughout the year, helping veterans, serving personnel, and their families improve their physical and mental wellbeing while reducing social isolation.
Visit www.bfcct.co.uk or get in touch on 01253 348691 for more information.