Free transport for Armed Forces Day

Free transport for Armed Forces Day

Published Wednesday 17th June 09

Servicemen and women are being invited to travel for free on Manchester's trams and buses to celebrate Armed Forces Day.

The move is a mark of thanks and recognition for all those who have fought for our freedom and safety.

GMPTE and System One Travelcards will provide free travel to members of the armed forces - past and present - on Saturday 27 June. Day passes can be collected from GMPTE Travelshops throughout Greater Manchester on production of an Armed Forces ID or Veterans Badge.

Members of the Armed Forces can use the offer of free transport to travel to and from the city centre, where a full day of entertainment is planned. In Piccadilly Gardens and Exchange Square between 12pm - 4pm on Saturday 27 June, there will be music from Greater Manchester Police band and the Kings Division military band as well as a climbing wall and military fitness 'have a go' sessions, and Armed Forces equipment and information stations.

The free transport offer is the latest in a line up of special discounts that have been provided by local businesses. Other offers to date include free parking in the NCP Manchester Central (GMEX only) Car Park, discounted tickets at The Odeon Cinema at the Printworks and a range of promotions from bars and restaurants including Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, Kro Bar, Hard Rock Café and Tiger Tiger. Organisers are now canvassing more businesses to get involved.

Councillor Val Stevens, Deputy Leader for Manchester City Council said: "We've got a great day planned and it is fantastic to see our transport operators getting behind the event in this way. I must thank both GMPTE and System One for their kind generosity and hope that other companies will follow suit so that we can work together and give the true heroes of Manchester the thank you they deserve."

Councillor Keith Whitmore, Vice Chair of Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority, said: "We are very happy to be supporting such a worthwhile event with this offer of free transport. Servicemen and women can collect their bus tickets from GMPTE Travelshops at bus stations across Greater Manchester from 22 June, and their Metrolink passes on 27 June. Concessionary pass holders do not need an Armed Forces Day pass to travel for free on the day."

Gradyn Thompson, General Manager, System One Travelcards added "We're happy to support the event and all our operators are looking forward to welcoming our servicemen and women, their friends and family on board Greater Manchester's extensive bus network."

Armed Forces Day was launched by the MOD earlier this year to show support to the armed forces community, past, present and future. Events will take place across the country on 27 June and will be delivered here in conjunction with Manchester City Council.

Any companies wishing to be involved should contact Ian Hyde on 07980 830 404 or email ian@ianhyde.co.uk

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