Flags of Thanks

Between the 24th and 30th June, the public are invited along to view over 1,000 flags that will be displayed at St Thomas’s Church in Salisbury city centre.

The hand-crafted flags have been created by passionate members of the general public and churches in this Diocese and from across the UK and further afield.

Each flag is a very personal expression of gratitude to the Armed Forces Community, from those currently serving to veterans and cadets.

The exhibition will be open to the public from Monday 24th June to Sunday 30th June from 9am until 5pm (or later). Exact opening times are available at www.flagsofthanks.org.

After the exhibition, churches and the general public will be able to sponsor having a flag made into a practical item, such as a sleeping bag or quilt. The sponsorship will go towards Alabaré’s Homes for Veterans, helping to change the lives of Armed Forces Veterans who are homeless and vulnerable.

Lt Col Neil Stace, also known as the Sewing Soldier following his appearance on the BBCs Sewing Bee, has been spearheading the project, running workshops with schools and community groups and will be transforming the flags into quilts, sleeping bags and ponchos. He says:

"It has been a privilege to support Alabaré in their Flags of Thanks project. We have been overwhelmed by the amazing designs that we have received and such heartfelt messages of thanks. We are excited to share what is sure to be a moving tribute to our Armed Forces."