Published: Friday, 23rd May 2025
Stoke-on-Trent is set to honour its military personnel at the annual Armed Forces Celebration Day on Sunday, 29 June 2025.
The free event takes place at Queen’s Park, Longton (ST3 4AU) from 12pm to 4.30pm and promises a full day of remembrance, celebration and family fun.
This year's celebration features a full military parade and a traditional Drumhead Service, paying tribute to both serving and former members of the Armed Forces. Local cadet forces and veteran associations will join the parade.
A major highlight of the day will be a Dakota flypast from the RAF, between 1.20 and 1.40pm - before the parade begins at 2pm.
The Douglas C47 Dakota is one of the most iconic military transport aircraft in history, known for its role in Burma, the D-Day landings and the airborne assault on Arnhem in 1944.
The RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Dakota ZA947, affectionately named ‘Kwicherbichen’ by her crews, carried out paradropping operations on the eve of D-Day, making this flypast a fitting tribute during Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary year.
Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent and Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Steve Watkins, said: “This event is a great day out for families and also a reminder of the bravery, service and sacrifices made by our Armed Forces. It’s also a celebration of community spirit, and I’m honoured to take part alongside so many local residents.
“In our Centenary year, it’s especially fitting that we honour local hero Jack Baskeyfield of Arnhem with a flypast from the very aircraft that played a crucial role in Operation Market Garden.”
Alongside the flypast and parade, visitors can enjoy military vehicle displays, emergency services exhibits and live musical entertainment. Family-friendly attractions include funfair rides and a variety of charity and community stalls.
Organised by the North Staffs Armed Forces Celebration Committee in partnership with Queen’s Park Partnership.
Councillor Lilian Dodd, chair of the North Staffs Armed Forces Celebration Committee, said: “We’re incredibly proud to bring the Armed Forces Celebration Day back to Queen’s Park for another year. The inclusion of the Dakota Flypast in this Centenary Year makes it especially meaningful. It’s a chance for our community to come together, show our appreciation and create lasting memories for all generations.”
For more information go to: https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/event/armed-forces-celebration-day-north-staffs/
Stoke-on-Trent City Council holds a Gold Award from the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme. The scheme encourages people to support the Armed Forces community in their area and increase understanding and awareness of the issues affecting the Armed Forces.
To find out more about support available for the Armed Forces and veterans email covenant@stoke.gov.uk or call 01782 235683.
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