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Community comes together to honour military personnel at Armed Forces Weekend

Important Information

22/07/2025

RYK Armed Forces Weekend 210725
  • Weekend of events paid tribute to and celebrated Armed Forces
  • Deputy MD Niall Clark attended to represent Rykneld Homes
  • The event was sponsored by SBS, Rykneld Homes’ principal contractor

Fly pasts and a family fun day were just some of the events that took place as part of the Staveley Armed Forces and Veterans Association Armed Forces Weekend.

Rykneld Homes Deputy Managing Director, Niall Clark, was among those who attended events hosted at Poolsbrook Country Park to honour local military personnel.

Niall attended the Interdenominational Church Service service to mark the start of a weekend of events and celebration on behalf of Rykneld Homes and event sponsor Sustainable Building Services (UK), Rykneld Homes decarbonisation works principal contractor and delivery partner.

North Derbyshire MP Louise Jones, Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins, the High Sheriff of Derbyshire Sir Richard FitzHerbert and Vice Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire Andrew Cochrane DL, were also in attendance.

SAFVA described the service as an opportunity to come together in memory of those who have served their country over the years and remember all those who were caught up in the World Wars and other conflicts since including the bereaved, injured and families of those in service.

Attendees sang the National Anthem, heard readings and observed a two minute silence in memory of the fallen before SAFVA President, Coin Martin Thacker MBE officially opened the weekend’s other events.

Niall said: “Events like this are a vital opportunity for the community to come together and show our deep appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of local service personnel and their families. 

“Seeing families enjoying the day, sharing moments of fun and remembrance, highlights the strong links between our communities and those who serve.”

SBS Managing Director Gary Lawson added: “We are committed to supporting the communities we work within, this event was the perfect opportunity to do that. 

“It was an honour to sponsor Armed Forces Weekend and to hear of the community spirit on display and the appreciation of our dedicated service personnel.”

Other supporters of the event included Staveley Town Council, Chesterfield Health and Wellbeing Partnership, North East Derbyshire District Council, Martins Waste Management, Martins Traffic Management, Councillor Elaine Tidd, Arnold Clark Chesterfield and Open Eyes Executive Services Ltd.