The 2014 UK National Armed Forces Day is to be held by one of the original Heroes Welcome City members, being Stirling, so I join you in wishing them all congratulations and hope that they have a wonderful day on June 28th. (We certainly will be here in Scarborough!)

Also, please remember that the Heroes Welcome ethos can make a real difference and add extra value to your Armed Forces Day offer. Many communities mobilise their Heroes Welcome members to make a special effort on the day. As an example in Scarborough, all serving personnel and military families are offered a special Resort Hosting Pack, which thanks to the generosity of local traders, includes vouchers for complimentary ice creams, sticks of rock, candy floss and a letter of promises which allow for discounted or free entry to rides, transport and attractions across the whole resort. The packs are distributed from a Military Families Information and Reception Point located at the centre of days activities. This simple gesture of a warm welcome is extremely popular and well received by all. We have attached an example letter of promises which you are welcome to adapt.