STAGECOACH West is helping to support Armed Forces Day 2018.

On Saturday June 30 the company will be offering free travel to armed forces personnel carrying a military ID card and to veterans carrying a veteran’s badge. Armed Forces Day is a chance for the public to show support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community, from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.

With events planned throughout the county, Stagecoach hopes that personnel will take up the offer to travel by bus to the event of their choice.

Rupert Cox, managing director of Stagecoach West, said: “We are proud to once again be supporting the armed forces communities by providing free travel to military personnel. By helping in this small way we hope to send a clear message that Stagecoach West supports both personnel who are currently serving and those who are veterans.”

In March 2015, Stagecoach Group signed the Ministry of Defence’s Armed Forces Corporate Covenant in support of the armed forces community. As a signatory of the Covenant, the company aims to recognise the value of serving personnel. It does so in tribute of the regulars, reservists, veterans and military families who contribute to the country and British businesses.

Rupert Added: “The company feels its important to recognise the tradition of supporting the hard work and dedication of members of our armed forces. This is just a small way of letting them know we appreciate the huge sacrifices they make.”

This year Stagecoach West is also getting involved with other charity work by supporting Gloucestershire Young Carers, a group that provides a help to young people and families affected by disability.

On a national level, Stagecoach was awarded the silver award through the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). The scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. Bronze, silver and gold awards acknowledge employers that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and for aligning values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

Celebrations for the armed forces kicked off in Swindon on Saturday as six army personnel parachuted into Faringdon Road Park. Military parades, war enactments and stalls for the public to meet veterans got everyone in the mood for the special day. Members of the Nepalese Association, many of whom served in the Royal Gurkha regiment, were also there to join in with the fun while South Swindon Robert Buckland spoke to crowds.

Stagecoach West recently introduced contactless payment on all 280 buses it operates throughout Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire and South Herefordshire.

For further information on Stagecoach’s activity in the area, visit: www.stagecoachbus.com