Armed Forces Weekend returns to Sunderland as crowds show support for city’s serving and veteran personnel

Georgina Cutler
By Georgina Cutler
Published 25th Jun 2022, 15:58 BST
Updated 25th Jun 2022, 16:11 BST
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Sunderland’s Armed Forces Weekend has returned after two years of cancellations following the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

Crowds of people turned out at Seaburn on Saturday to enjoy “a nice community spirit” while celebrating the achievements of Sunderland’s serving and veteran personnel as part of Armed Forces Day.

The two-day event, which runs until 6pm on Sunday, June 26, sees local performers such as the D-Day Darlings and Yvonne the Vintage Vocalist take to the stage.

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More than 70 market stalls along with food vendors have taken over Seaburn Park for the special celebration with numerous military associations and charities also attending.

Sunderland Armed Forces Day at Seaburn Park - Star Wars fundraisers North East Legion.Sunderland Armed Forces Day at Seaburn Park - Star Wars fundraisers North East Legion.
Sunderland Armed Forces Day at Seaburn Park - Star Wars fundraisers North East Legion.

The day-time programme, which kicked off at 10am this morning, included a 13th Century encampment set up by Historia Normanis, military vehicles, martial arts and karate.

A fairground are also on hand to provide entertainment for all the family

The annual event had a special visit this year from Star Wars movie baddie Darth Vader and his Stormtroopers as the flag was raised by the Mayor of Sunderland Cllr Alison Smith

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