On Saturday 17 June, Torbay pays tribute to its British Armed Forces community as the Torbay Armed Forces Day returns to Paignton Green.

Organised for the 3rd year in a row by the Veterans of Torbay (Torbay Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club), Armed Forces Day is a chance for you to show your support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, from currently serving personnel to service families, veterans and cadets.

The event opens to the public at 10am, with the parade setting off from Paignton Harbour at 11am and heading across the seafront along the Eastern Esplanade to receive the Salute.

During the day Paignton Green will host a variety of activities and entertainment supporting various military charities, including military displays and music, plus food and drink stalls.

The entertainment marquee provides a full line-up on stage through the day and into the evening.

The Fostering team from Torbay Council will also be at the event to talk to anyone who is thinking of becoming a Foster Carer or just wants to find out more about fostering. 

Bays Brewery and other providers are on hand to serve refreshments and the day promises to be a fun experience for all.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader of Torbay Council and Cabinet Member for Place Services and Economic Growth, and a veteran himself, said: “It’s fantastic to see our celebration of Armed Forces Day back on Paignton Green, and I encourage you to go along and enjoy the activities.

“Armed Forces Day is a wonderful way to recognise and celebrate the work of all our Armed Services, and to show support for the wider community of cadets, families and veterans.

“Our Services personnel are active around the world, promoting peace and taking part in operations including delivering aid, tackling drug smugglers, providing security and fighting terrorism.

“This is a great way to show our support and thanks for the often difficult and dangerous work they do on our behalf.”

With the hot weather forecast to continue, you are advised to bring sun cream, hats and water bottles. There will be water filling stations on site.

Please be aware that there will be a road closure in place on Eastern Esplanade along the seafront by Paignton Green from 8am to 12noon for the Torbay Armed Forces Day Parade.

To show our support for our Armed Forces, the festoon lighting along Paignton’s seafronts will be turned red, white, and blue for the evening.    

Entertainment Marquee events          

• 10am to 11am: Military Music
• 11am: Parade from Harbour Light Restaurant
• 12noon: Big Noise Choir
• 12:50pm: Sandy Sparkle
• 1:30pm:  Pipes and Drums of Devon Fire and Rescue
• 2:10pm: Samantha Montini
• 2:50pm: Missin Tackle Sea Shanty
• 3:30pm: Sandy Sparkle
• 4:10pm: Big Noise Choir
• 4:50pm: Samantha Montini
• 5:30pm to 6pm: Sandy Sparkle
• 6pm: Event Ends
• 8:30pm to 11pm: Soul Funktion

Map below shows details of the road closure from 8am to 12pm on Saturday 17 June 2023.