Capital is in line to host military fun

EDINBURGH is in line to host the national Armed Forces Day next year, it emerged today.

Thousands of residents are expected to support the city's soldiers tomorrow at the second annual event, but the focus of the national celebration is Cardiff.

Next year, Edinburgh could have that honour, meaning it would play host to several big military names and thousands of visitors – including the Queen.

Although dozens of towns and cities were in the running for the event, the shortlist has been whittled down to Edinburgh and Belfast, with the winner due to be announced tomorrow.

Council leader Jenny Dawe is set to attend this year's national event in Cardiff, where she is believed to be picking up tips in the event of Edinburgh playing host in 2011.

Lord Provost George Grubb said: "It would be a tremendous honour for Edinburgh to be chosen to host the 2011 events. We would start planning immediately for a spectacular occasion."

The 2010 Armed Forces Day celebrations in Edinburgh kick off at 1pm with a parade from Edinburgh Castle to The Mound, via the City Chambers and Waverley Bridge by serving military personnel, veterans and young cadets.

The public will then be able to take part in an afternoon of free activities and entertainment at the Ross Bandstand in West Princes Street Gardens.

As well as refreshments and music, there will be stalls and information stands and children's entertainment.

Babcock's Marine division at Rosyth is sponsoring a big screen, which will show films from each branch of the armed forces during the afternoon.

The Lord Provost will take the salute during the parade.

He said: "This year's Armed Forces Day celebrations in the Capital look certain to repeat the great success of last year's event. We're expecting hundreds of veterans, serving personnel and young cadets to parade from Edinburgh Castle, watched by friends and family.

"We are putting on a series of fun and family-friendly events designed to pay tribute to those who have served, who are currently serving and who might one day serve their country.

"Edinburgh has a long and proud tradition of honouring its servicemen and women, so I'm sure this will be a wonderful and memorable occasion."