Rochdale pays tribute to servicemen

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Photo: Laura Wild

The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Zulfiqar Ali speaks to the small crowd about Armed Forces Day

Rochdale marked British Armed Forces Day today (Monday 21 June 2010) with a flag raising ceremony at the town hall.

The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Zulfiqar Ali joined with representatives from the Royal British Legion and local councillors for the ceremony.

The flag was raised at 10.30 am and will fly until Saturday (26 June 2010) which is the official British Armed Forces Day.

Mayor Ali said: “It is very important to raise the flag and recognise the continuous efforts made by the armed forces. They are doing a job that makes us proud.

“However, it is a pity that more people didn’t turn up for this event.

“We need a lot more public participants on days like this to give thanks to service men and women.”

Deputy Leader of the Rochdale Council, Councillor Ashley Dearnley said: “I am delighted that Rochdale is fully supporting Armed Forces Day.

“This is a mindful time for troops in Afghanistan and other places in the world. They deserve our full support for all they do. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.”