Sheffield City Council releases statement after flag becomes stuck on Armed Forces Day
“The council remains proud to support Armed Forces Day”
The Sheffield City council have released a statement explaining why the Armed Forces flag was not raised earlier today.
A parade celebrating those who put their lives on the line to defend the UK was held in the city centre.
Starting at 11.30am, the parade passed through Norfolk Row before heading down Fargate as huge crowds gathered to pay their respects and honour the contributions of all those who have served their country.
After the parade there was also a speech from the Lord Mayor, voicing his continued support for the Armed Forces along with a live band and other activities throughout the afternoon.
However, plans to fly the Armed Forces flag above the town hall during celebrations were derailed due to a malfunction when officers went to take down the Pride flag.
As a result, the council made alternate arrangements, draping the flag above the entrance to the town hall to continue showing their appreciation to military personnel and veterans.
In a statement, Sheffield City Council told The Star: “Sheffield City Council staff began lowering the Pride flag at the town hall this morning as part of planned arrangements to display the Armed Forces flag be raised at the town hall today, in line with our established arrangements to mark Armed Forces Day and show our support for serving personnel, veterans and their families.
“During the process, the Pride flag became stuck and could not be safely removed at that time. As soon as the issue was known, the council's leader and chief executive made alternative arrangements to ensure the Armed Forces Day flag could still be displayed from the Town Hall today.
“Work will take place to remove the Pride flag safely. The council remains proud to support Armed Forces Day and to recognise the contribution and sacrifice of serving personnel, veterans, reservists and their families.”