Residents in Stratford-on-Avon District are invited to a free Armed Forces community event on Saturday, 27 June.

This is an opportunity for the public to recognise the service and sacrifice of all currently serving personnel, reservists, veterans and their families.

The event, run by award-winning leisure operator Everyone Active, will bring together sport, local partners and armed forces organisations to honour and celebrate the contributions of veterans.

Stratford Leisure Centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with Stratford-on-Avon District Council, will kick off the day on its outdoor football pitches, where a 12-team football tournament will take place from 11:30am to 3:00pm.

Following the tournament, players and spectators will head to Stratford's Recreation Ground for the finals, which will form part of the wider Armed Forces Day - open to all members of the public.

The Recreation Ground will host a packed programme of activities for all ages and abilities aimed at recognising and engaging with the local armed forces community.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet and speak to local military groups, veterans and cadets and view a showcase of military vehicles.

Information stands from community support organisations will also be on offer throughout the day, alongside food and drink stalls, live music and a full-size Formula 1 simulator challenge. 

A number of key partners will also be in attendance, including Orbit, Mind, Act on Energy, representatives from Stratford-on-Avon District Council, Veterans Contact Point, alongside various charities supporting veterans and their families.

The Veterans Contact Point provides a confidential and free service for veterans and their families living and working in Coventry and Warwickshire.

Armed Forces Day is an annual national campaign dedicated to showing support and appreciation for the entire military community.

Richard Bell, Everyone Active area contract manager, said: "We're thrilled to be working with Veterans Contact Point to support this fantastic event within the local community, which aims to honour and remember brave heroes who have served their country.

"The day is all about bringing people together, celebrating the strength of community while engaging in some activities to boost health and wellbeing. The football tournament will be a brilliant way to kick off the day on our pitches and we're incredibly proud to help create opportunities for residents to connect with our armed forces community."

Julie Lewis, Head of Environment and Operations at Stratford District Council said: "We're proud to support this Armed Forces Day event, which brings our community together to recognise the dedication, courage and sacrifice of our serving personnel, veterans and their families. 

"Events like this not only honour their contribution but also highlight the strong support networks available locally. We look forward to welcoming residents of all ages to join us in Stratford-upon-Avon."

To find out more, visit: https://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/event/stratford-upon-avon-armed-forces-day/ or Armed Forces Day 2026 | Stratford-on-Avon District Council