Nottingham’s iconic Council House will be lit up tomorrow (Saturday) in red, white and blue to mark national Armed Forces Day 2020.

The day aims to show support for the men and women of the Forces community, which includes serving troops and service families, to veterans and cadets. It is seen as a much-valued morale boost for the troops and their families.

In previous years, there have been a number of events held in Nottingham to mark the day but unfortunately these have not been possible in 2020 because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Instead, the Council House is to be lit up in red, white and blue, as it was for VE Day last month, and the Armed Forces Day flag has been flying from the building all week.

Councillor Rebecca Langton, the City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities, said: “Armed Forces Day will obviously be different this year due to the current pandemic, but it’s really important that we mark it here in Nottingham. Service men and women have played a vital role in the coronavirus response, and we were all inspired by 100-year-old veteran Tom Moore, who raised more than £32m for the NHS in April.

“Nottingham has a proud history of support for the Armed Forces and the men and women from the city who have served their country. Indeed, we were one of the first councils to sign the Armed Forces Covenant in 2013.

“Armed Forces Day provides a wonderful opportunity for us all to acknowledge their dedication and commitment, past and present. We remember the sacrifices they have made over generations, and will continue to make up to the present day. The City Council will work to ensure that their contributions are recognised.”

Councillor Rosemary Healy, Lord Mayor of Nottingham, added: “Members of the Armed Forces make huge personal sacrifices to defend our country, and their efforts are deserving of our support and recognition.

“Unfortunately, we can’t mark the day as fully this year, but we couldn’t allow the opportunity to pass without saying ‘thank you’.”