LAST Saturday was Armed Forces Day and I was pleased to be able to attend the event held at St John’s Museum in Warwick. A good number of stalls featured including those for the cadets and Royal Logistics Corps based in Kineton.
The day is an important event in the calendar to celebrate the sacrifice and achievements made by the people who protect our country. It is also, however, an opportunity to reflect on how our society rewards their service.
Unfortunately in recent years our armed forces personnel have been badly let down. They have been dealt a real-terms pay cut for seven years running, Ministry of Defence housing is often in poor condition due to outsourcing, and it is difficult for armed services personnel to find places for their children in their chosen school when they must move for work. I believe there is a need for us to ensure fair pay, decent housing, support for forces children, and a need to give a voice to servicemen and women. We must protect our protectors.
I attended several other great local events at the weekend. Whitnash Fun Day is a good example of the community spirit thriving in our area. I was delighted to play my part in the judging of the ‘superhero’ float competition, won by Whitnash Beavers for their imaginative Batmobile float. A big well done to them and all the Brownies and Cubs from Whitnash, Warwick Gates and Bishops Tachbrook that took part. I would also like to thank and congratulate Coun Adrian Barton and everyone else who made the event happen.
This year’s SCBU Fest was another success. In the past year the organisers, led by Nicki and Lucy, have raised an incredible £30,000 for the Warwick Special Care Baby Unit, which I know is hugely valued in the area. The festival is a great way to raise funds, while providing a fun day of family entertainment locally and I was pleased to get along.
Matt Western
