A FULL programme of events to mark Veterans' Day is finally taking place in Sheffield - two years after the annual national celebration was first launched.
No events took place at all in the city during the inaugural year in 2006. And last year a parade, reception and exhibition planned by ex-service associations had to be cancelled after the Ministry of Defence offered just £1,000 to pay for the event
and Sheffield Council would not cover the cost.
Following a public outcry, a scaled-down civic reception was held by the Lord Mayor - but many war heroes had already chosen to attend events elsewhere.
This year, efforts of soldiers, sailors and airmen from past and more recent conflicts will be properly marked on Saturday June 28.
Veterans' Day was the idea of Prime Minister Gordon Brown, as a celebration of service personnel who have survived conflicts.
Remembrance Day, in November, is a more sombre affair to commemorate those who died.
Harry Orton, aged 85, of High Green, who served in the Royal Signals from World War Two up to the Suez Crisis of the 1950s, working his way up to the rank of Sgt Major, said: "I am pleased this event is now going to be marked."
Sgt Major Bob Fox, of the Territorial Army's 106 Field Squadron Royal Signals, based in Greenhill, who served in Afghanistan last year, added: "I'd support anything that helps bring what we do into the public eye."
Veterans' Day celebrations - organised by Sheffield Council and Sheffield and District Ex-Service Association - are to be led by the new Lord Mayor Coun Jane Bird.
Activities will begin at noon with a parade through the Peace Gardens to the Town Hall, and a badge presentation ceremony.
From 1pm to 4pm there will be an exhibition in the reception rooms at the Town Hall, with information stands, images and memorabilia by the Sheffield veterans, local branches of the armed forces, cadet groups and support organisations. And from 1.30pm to 3.30pm there will be a Wartime Waltz in the Peace Gardens, with music from the 1940s, 50s and 60s.
- The Star is offering people the chance to join a day trip to the UK's opening celebrations for Veterans' Day in Blackpool on Friday June 27, which includes a service and parade. The excursion costs £29.95 per person and includes a three-course lunch plus the chance to look at exhibitions. Call Star Holidays on 0114 276 7676 or visit The Star offices on York Street, Sheffield, for details.
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