Lancs Armed Forces Covenant

25/08/2026

What a busy morning at the Sandbag Cafe in Preston. Visitors included the Armed Forces Support Group of Barrowford, Citizens Advice Bureau, Eve Chester from Age UK, Gregg Stevenson - Armed Forces Covenant Hub Manager, Michael Nutter from Weeton Barracks and Phil Crowe - Preston Armed Forces Champion. All hosted by Col David Waters.
Afterwards I bumped into former Major General Jose Manavalan of the Madras Sappers who was over in the UK visiting family and was thrilled to have been recognised.

25/08/2026

Another set of medals cleaned, re-ribboned and mounted by Bill Holden of Morecambe (pictured). Bill can be contacted via Bay Veterans Association on Facebook.

19/08/2026

Viscount Henry Montgomery - grandson of General Bernard Montgomery - visited Fulwood Barracks to interview three of our WWII veterans for his 'In Monty's Footsteps' documentary. Richard Brock, Ken Benbow and Marjory Hanson all recounted their experiences during WWII and enjoyed tea and cakes with Viscount Henry!

15/08/2026

Today, on VJ Day, we remember the courage, sacrifice and resilience of all those who served in the Far East during the Second World War.

Victory over Japan brought an end to the Second World War on 15 August 1945, following years of brutal fighting across Asia and the Pacific.

We remember those who fought, those who endured captivity, those who never returned home, and the families and communities forever changed by their service.

Their service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

We will remember them.

30/07/2026

We’re proud to see Lancashire’s own Rick Clement recognised as a finalist in the 2026 Soldiering On Awards Inspiration Award.

Rick has dedicated his life to serving others, and this recognition reflects his outstanding commitment to the Armed Forces community and the positive difference he continues to make.

If you’ve been inspired by Rick’s story, we’d encourage you to show your support by casting your vote.

Congratulations, Rick, from everyone at the Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant. We’re all behind you and wish you the very best of luck.

Vote here: https://www.soldieringon.org/placeyourvote

27/07/2026

Join us at The Halo Aerospace Stadium July 29th for our Veterans Coffee Morning.☕️

This month, we are excited to have Kane Pennington joining us as a guest speaker, sharing his personal, first-hand account of military resettlement.🫡

Our Veterans Coffee Mornings are open to all serving personnel, veterans, spouses, and families. We look forward to seeing you there!

🦐 | Veterans' Foundation | Lancs Armed Forces Covenant

22/07/2026

*Time is running out! Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant is proud to support Fighting With Pride and the Battle for Lost Veterans campaign.

LGBT veterans who served in HM Armed Forces between 1967 and 2000, and were affected by the historic ban, may be eligible for financial recognition of up to £70,000.

To check eligibility and apply, visit GOV.UK and search:

“LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme”

Support and guidance are also available from Fighting With Pride.

Applications close at 23:59 on 12 December 2026.

06/07/2026

My destination today was Weeton Barracks where "Roots and Branches" Forest School are based on the primary school site. They host veteran's coffee mornings and wellbeing activities and grow a plethora of vegetables, herbs and flowers in their well stocked garden. The organisation is the brainchild of of Lisa, Emma and Tanya (pictured) who work tirelessly for the local community.
They are hosting "Weetonfest" on Wednesday 5th August where there will be music, a Fijian curry and chance to tour the site and network. Please feel free to come along - even if it's just for a cuppa and a natter!!
[email protected]

05/07/2026

The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment celebrated their 20th Anniversary with a parade and re-dedication service of the 100 year old Preston Cenotaph.

01/07/2026