Gordon at Remembrance Day in Blackpool

Blackpool South MP Gordon Marsden today declared his support for efforts to bring major new National Veterans Day celebrations to Blackpool again this year.

After attending the launch event in Parliament for the Government’s new Veterans Day celebrations with Veterans Minister Derek Twigg, Mr Marsden welcomed Blackpool’s bid to host major events for Veterans Day in June 2008 and paid tribute to those of all generations who have served in the Armed Forces.

“In Blackpool I have seen the sterling work of the British Legion and the Burma Star Association and other ex-service personnel organisations over the years. There are many generations of former and current service personnel and their families’ living in Blackpool and that’s why I hope Blackpool’s bid to host National Veterans Day this year is a success.”

Mr Marsden’s support for Veterans Day follows his recent campaigns in Blackpool and Westminster to ensure proper health and welfare support for veterans as well as working with the Burma Star Association to recognise the contribution of Merchant Marines during the Second World War.

Mr Marsden said “at the event in Parliament I met with service staff and Ministry of Defence officials to discuss the plans for National Veterans Day including more funding from Government to supports events across the country, and the Armed Forces Veterans Badge. I will be working closely with those who are hoping to bring a major event to Blackpool to build on last year’s success.”

“The new Veterans Badge is a way to thank those who served their country and to demonstrate how individual stories personify the qualities we respect in our Armed Forces.”

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