SOUTHEND is getting ready to celebrate the UK’s first Armed Forces Day, with a big military parade along the High Street.

At 11am, the Band of the Adjutant-General Corps will lead the march from Tylers Avenue to Royal Square, at the top of Pier Hill.

General Sir Richard Dannatt, Chief of the General Staff and head of the Army, will join Southend mayor Brian Smith to take the salute at Pier Hill.

Mr Smith said: “This weekend will provide a very special opportunity for us to honour Britain’s Armed Forces past, present and future and say thank you to all those of all ages in the borough who have served their country.”

The mayor and the general will also honour several veterans with badges recognising their service to their country.

Following the presentation, sailors will join join soldiers from the 3rd Royal Anglian Regiment and 36 Signal Regiment in demonstrations of their military skills.

Rayleigh Air Cadets will also be present and the Royals shopping centre and Royal Square will host memorabilia displays by veterans’ associations.

Other attractions include a climbing wall, children’s art activities, and music from Southend High School Band, 5 Star Swing band and a Fifities nostalgia show.

The day will end with a flypast by the Red Arrows at 4.45pm.

The westbound carriageway of Western Easplanade will be closed, from the pier to Maxims Casino, from 8am to 5pm on Saturday.