Published Thursday 19 June 2025 at 15:17
Next week Blackburn with Darwen will join over 400 councils across the country in the annual raising of flags to show support for our Armed Forces.
Ceremonial flags will be raised at both Blackburn and Darwen Town Halls at 11am on Monday 23 June.
Residents from across the borough are welcome to join the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Deputy Lieutenants of Lancashire, Deputy Council Leader, Chief Executive and Deputy Chief Executive in saluting the men and women of our Armed Forces, past and present.
At Blackburn Town Hall, the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Mahfooz Hussain, will represent the Council, with the Deputy Lieutenant Khalid Saifullah presenting the ceremonial Armed Forces Day flag.
At Darwen Town Hall, the Mayor, Councillor Jacquie Slater, will attend the event, alongside Deputy Lieutenant Travis Frain.
Members of the Royal British Legion and veterans will also be present.
Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Jacquie Slater, said:
I feel very proud to have a role in this celebration of our servicemen and women.
Having two sons who have served in the armed forces, I have seen firsthand the sacrifices they make for their country. Theirs is the ultimate public service, which has enabled us to live our lives today in peace and freedom, something we should all be grateful for.
I’m looking forward to seeing our borough come together to show our appreciation for all their hard work, their bravery and their commitment to public service.
Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, added:
It’s important for us to show our support to all members of the Armed Forces community for their dedication and service to our country – in the run-up to Armed Forces Day, as a borough we say thank you.
Monday’s flag raising ceremonies in Blackburn and Darwen take place ahead of National Armed Forces Day on Saturday 28 June.
Armed Forces Day, held on the last Saturday in June every day, gives everyone the opportunity to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community – from currently serving personnel to service families, veterans and cadets.
Find out more about Armed Forces Day at www.armedforcesday.org.uk.
Filed under : Armed Forces Day | Civic | Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen | Veterans