SMI Debbie Callaghan, County Media Officer
An ‘Open Day’ was held for the 10 Greater Manchester Borough Councils Mayor’s, Mayoress’ & Consorts, The High Sheriff, Mrs Lorraine Christine Worsely-Carter MBE DL, and other prominent guests from or working in Greater Manchester.
Some of the other guests included the Assistant Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, Sarah Jackson and DS Wendy Grace and Greater Manchester Fire Rescue Service Area Manager Ben Levy. Several Deputy Lieutenants of Greater Manchester also attended along with three Army Veterans, Mr Don Rhodes, Mr Graham Braithwaite and Mr Bob Nicholson from the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment Association. Manchester Branch-King's & Manchesters.
The day was arranged, and invites were sent out by our Hon Col Sharman Birtles MBE JP DL, Vice Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester.
The day begun with a welcome and short presentation about Greater Manchester ACF by our Commandant, Col Catherine Harrison.
A presentation of flowers and plaque by our Hon Col, was given to two representatives from SETA who, along with her company, made the Platinum Jubilee Green Canopy Harbour Area Story Board. (See pictures)
Lt Col Billy Royle, Deputy Commandant said “The visitors met some of the cadets and adult volunteers on planned activity stands of Indoor Range, Air Rifle, STEM, Archery and Fieldcraft. Many of the guests took part in the activities which they thoroughly enjoyed.
All had a curry lunch in the canteen which was enjoyed by all. Following lunch some of the dignitaries had to leave but others went to the unveiling of the Platinum Jubilee Green Canopy Harbour Area Story Board.”
The feedback of the day was very positive from all who attended. Some of the comments below.
James Daly MP for Bury attended and took part in some of the activities with the cadets. Mr Daly said “Great to see the fantastic work that the cadet forces are doing with young people from across Greater Manchester. Thank you to all the cadets and instructors for such a warm welcome”
Rochdale Mayor Cllr Sayed Ali Ahmed said “It was great to be invited to Holcombe Moor Training Camp by the Vice Lord Lieutenant Sharman Birtles to meet cadets and staff and see the excellent training facilities. What an amazing job the staff do with the cadets.”
Antony Cotton MBE, Coronation Street Actor and Veterans Champion was invited to attend Holcombe Moor to meet the cadets and staff. “I had a brilliant day. All the cadets were amazing - engaging, confident, welcoming, and funny. I was very impressed by them. The flutists and drum corps were note perfect too. It is a day I’ll remember for a long time - I salute you all.”
For more pictures of the day please click the link here
Thank you to all the cadets and staff who made the day truly memorable for our visitors.
Thank you also to RSMI Douglas Craddock for the pictures taken on the day.
