West Norfolk salutes you
RESIDENTS of West Norfolk went into the streets to show their appreciation for our armed forces ahead of the official launch of a Lynn News-backed campaign to do just that.
Today, the Lynn News calls for businesses and service providers across Lynn and West Norfolk to join the campaign – billed Heroes Welcome – by publicly offering their support, a discount or an upgrade to our military men and women.
The official launch followed RAF Marham's annual Freedom of the Borough parade and flypast in Lynn, which servicemen and women said was the most enthusiastically supported ever.
West Norfolk was only the second place in the country to get on board Heroes Welcome, which is earning national status, with backing from the Ministry of Defence, services charities and the royal family.
Already in the borough, around 25 businesses, tourist attractions and service providers, including electricians, bus and taxi firms and gyms, have signed up and it is hoped many more will now follow.
The idea of the West Norfolk Council-led initiative is for businesses to offer something a little extra or discount, of say 10 per cent, to all members of the armed forces to show appreciation for the job they do.
Council leader Nick Daubney said: "Successful and happy communities depend upon stability, safety and trust.
"We all depend heavily upon the work of our military forces and these, by and large young people, are a significant part of our community.
"This is a simple but sincere gesture of gratitude for the difficult tasks we ask them to undertake."
Cpl Adrian Boler, of Tilney St Lawrence, who has been based at Marham for ten years, said: "I think it's fantastic. You go to America and there are so many places offering military discount, it just feels like everyone is backing you. Now shops are supporting us here.
"This was one of the first parades I've been to where the public have been clapping."
Sgt Jim Russell, of Downham, added: "The reaction we got today from the local community does make you feel proud to be a member of the armed forces."
Businesses supporting Heroes Welcome can display a sticker, available from the Lynn News office and West Norfolk Council.
Their details are also listed at www.heroeswelcome.co.uk/westnorfolk
To add your business's name, fill in the coupon on the front page of this website.
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Weather for King's Lynn
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 9 C to 26 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North
