A MOVING ceremony was held in Swindon town centre to honour veterans of the Armed Forces.

Hosted by InSwindon, the town centre management company, the ceremony was part of a week of events in the build up to National Armed Forces’ Day on Saturday.

More than 25 veterans received a veteran badge and a bottle of commemorative beer brewed specially for this week by Arkell’s.

This week, the activities included the raising of the Armed Forces’ Flag on Monday and a gala dinner in aid of Help the Heroes last Saturday.

Still to come is the family funday on Saturday at Faringdon Park.

Swindon Mayor Rex Barnett, said: “I felt very humble and proud to present the medals.

“It reminded me of what we don't see on the front line and it's a honour to hold this event as a Swindonian.''

One of those awarded a badge was Neville Kirby, who served between 1954-1956 and has only recently opened up to his family about what he saw after years of joking about what he actually thought.

His wife encouraged him to go to the ceremony.

He said: “It felt really lovely and good to be here today.

“I didn’t want anything to do with the Army again after my National Service but after some persuasion I came and I’m glad I did.”'

InSwindon chief executive, Simon Jackson said: “This isn’t the only event that InSwindon is holding this week and we also have such events on Remembrance Sunday.

“This weekend we have organised a military parade on Sunday at Church Street and of course the family fun day on Saturday, which is more for celebration rather than commemoration.”

Events at the family fun day at Faringdon Park will begin at 11am with a display by the Paramount Parachute Team. Entry is free.