Sleaford's Freedom Parade & Family Concert 2014
by Baron Halpenny, LincsMag Editor.
Date: 02 July 2014
It was one of those great occasions that makes you proud of your country and it's past as RAF personnel, cadets and veterans paraded through Sleaford on Sunday 29 June, led by the impressive band of RAF College Cranwell in the Armed Forces Parade as well as in formal recognition of being given The Freedom of Sleaford.
Sleaford's Appreciation
The people of Sleaford turned out with flags and banners as well as beaming smiles, and it has to be said a tear or two of pride, as they showed their respect and appreciation for the members of the armed forces past and present.
The parade route was unchanged from previous years as the Parade left from Station Road, marching up Southgate to the Market Place where there were words of prayer and speeches by the chairman of North Kesteven District Council Lance Pennell, the Deputy Mayor of Sleaford Garry Titmus, Commandant of the RAF College, Air Commodore Chris Luck, and Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire Tony Worth.
Both Garry Titmus and Lance Pennell are also former servicemen, so the Parade and their speeches had an extra sincerity and poignancy to them.
Family Concert
After a fine display, music and inspection the Parade moved off once more and was dismissed in Eastbanks car park where there then followed a free open-air concert hosted by Lincs FM DJ, John Marshall, on the riverside green outside The National Centre for Craft & Design.
As well as the open-air concert featuring many fine performers there were also numerous activities and entertainment especially for children, along with food and drink stalls and a licensed bar.
Facebook Picture Album
To see more pictures from the Sleaford's Freedom Parade & Family Concert 2014, visit the Album on our Facebook page HERE!
