St George's Day march will see town mark centenary of battles

On April 21, Emsworth will once again welcome its neighbours, soldiers from 12 Regiment Royal Artillery on Thorney Island, who will parade through the town to raise money for SSAFA.

The Battle of the Imjin Rose will be commemorated, along with the 100th anniversary year of both the battle of The Somme and Battle of Jutland,

It also falls on the Queen’s 90th birthday – which will be marked at the parade.

Two days later there will be a sponsored dog walk around Thorney Island to mark St George’s Day and raise money for Hounds for Heroes.

Giles Babb, chairman of Emsworth Business Association, which organises the parade, said: ‘This is now our ninth invitation to soldiers from Thorney Island and we’re looking forward to it.

‘It’s great to be able to celebrate our armed forces, which is something we are very good at in Emsworth.

‘The service families on Thorney Island are a big part of our community and we feel it’s really important to integrate both walks of life.

‘This is an opportunity to show our gratitude to the men and women of our armed services for their unstinting dedication to duty.’

The parade starts at 10.30am with veterans from various conflicts going back more than 60 years marching with 12 Regiment Royal Artillery.

Children from Thorney Island Primary and Emsworth Primary will join them. It will culminate in St Peter’s Square in front of the mayor of Havant Cllr Leah Turner and the RA commanding officer.

The dog walk is organised by Acorn Health and starts at 11am on Thornham Lane. Entry is £5 per dog. Call 07903 455139.

There is also plenty happening at Fort Purbook over the weekend. As well as arts and crafts for all ages a 25-pounder gun salute will take place.

Go to royalarmouries.org