Tendring District Council (TDC) is once again showing its support for the Armed Forces community as part of Armed Forces Week (22–28 June 2026) – a national campaign celebrating those who serve and have served and their families.

The week provides an opportunity for residents to recognise the vital role of regulars, reservists, veterans, cadets and military families, and to reflect on the contribution they make both locally and nationally.

As part of the national programme, the Armed Forces Day flag will be raised at Clacton Town Hall at 11am on Saturday, 27 June, marking the district’s continued commitment to those who protect the UK at home and overseas.

Councillor Ann Oxley, Chairman of TDC, said: “Armed Forces Week is a chance for us all to pause and say thank you.

“Behind every uniform is a person who has made a commitment to serve their country, often with great personal sacrifice.

“In Tendring, that support goes beyond a single week – we are committed to standing with our Armed Forces community every day of the year.”

Councillor Carlo Guglielmi, Vice Chairman of TDC, added: “It will be an honour to raise the flag on behalf of Tendring residents as we show our appreciation for the Armed Forces community.

“The flag raising is a simple but important way for us to recognise the dedication, service and sacrifice of those who have served our country.”

TDC continues to provide practical support through its Armed Forces Covenant, ensuring that serving personnel, veterans and their families are treated fairly and are not disadvantaged in accessing housing, employment or council services.

The council is also a Gold Award holder under the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme, reflecting its strong support for reservists and veteran-friendly employment practices.

This includes flexible working arrangements for reservists and promoting career opportunities that recognise the skills gained through military service.

Councillor Dan Casey, TDC’s Armed Forces Champion and President of the Clacton branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL), added: “Reservists make an invaluable contribution, serving their country while balancing the demands of civilian life and careers.

“Reserves Day on 24 June is an important opportunity to recognise that commitment, but in Tendring our support for the wider Armed Forces community runs right through the year.

“Tendring has a proud connection with the Armed Forces, and we want that support to be visible, meaningful and felt by veterans, reservists, cadets and service families alike.

“As a Gold Award holder, we’re proud of the steps we have taken, but just as important is making sure those who serve, or have served, know they are valued and supported here in Tendring.”

Community initiatives also play a key role in bringing people together, including the popular annual Veterans’ Tea Dance at the Princes Theatre, run in partnership with Clacton RBL.

The council will also continue to honour the Armed Forces at major local events, including the Clacton Airshow on August 27 and 28, which will feature a special tribute to the Armed Forces with a flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, offering a stirring salute to the bravery of those who defended the skies during wartime.

TDC will also be marking Armed Forces Week by waiving the usual joining fee at Clacton Leisure Centre, Dovercourt Bay Lifestyles and Walton-on-the-Naze Lifestyles for members of the Armed Forces throughout June — a saving of £27.45. Anyone eligible who would like to find out more, or sign up, can visit one of the three sites for details.

Residents are encouraged to get involved during the week by sharing messages of support and appreciation, helping to strengthen understanding of the Armed Forces’ contribution to national security, local communities and economic growth.

To find out more about how Tendring District Council supports the Armed Forces community, visit the Armed Forces section on the TDC website.