Armed Forces Day in Swindon took place on the afternoon of Saturday 20 June 2026 on the lawn in front of Lydiard House at Lydiard Park. Swindon Borough Council organised the event as part of the national day honouring serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families.
The Mayor of Swindon, Councillor Neil Hopkins, and the council's Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Leanne Stevenson, welcomed visitors.
What was there to see?
- Military stalls, community stalls, crafts and family activities
- A procession by the Gurkhas, led by a lone piper
- A Second World War Merryweather & Sons "Valiant" steam fire engine, brought by local steam enthusiast Colin Hatch
- A large military crane
- An interactive session run by Tim Howe of Longevity Games
How was it paid for?
The council said the day was part-funded by the Ministry of Defence, which shared £430,000 between 130 community groups and local authorities. Swindon received £5,000.
Cllr Stevenson said: "Collectively, we're here together as one big family." She added: "It's been a fantastic day."
Source: Swindon Borough Council.
More from Swindo: Lydiard Park.