News and press releases
Covenant Demonstrates South Tyneside's Support For Armed Forces Personnel
Press release
The Mayor, Cllr Jim Sewell with members of the Armed Forces and the local community at the signing of the Armed Services Community Covenant.
South Tyneside Council has pledged its support for the armed services community by signing the official Armed Services Community Covenant.
The Covenant was signed today (Thursday 1 December) in South Shields Town Hall during a meeting of the full council by the Mayor, Councillor Jim Sewell together with members of the armed forces and representatives of the local community.
The Mayor said: "South Tyneside Council is committed to showing its recognition of the services and of the sacrifices shown by our residents who have served as members of the Armed Forces. This Covenant aims to encourage respect for Service personnel, families and veterans and help provide easier access to public services as well as concessions and discounted private services."
Lt Col Mark Mackenzie Crooks RA, signing the Covenant on behalf of the Army, said: "The welcome and support for service personnel from the people of South Tyneside is legendary in the region. They are highly supportive of those going on active operations as well as the veterans; this Covenant will better integrate all the services into the local community."
South Tyneside Council has recognised the Armed Forces in many ways over the years. The Freedom of the Borough was given to the 205 (3rd Durham Voluntary Artillery) Battery Royal Artillery (volunteers) in 2007.
The Covenant was signed by:
The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Jim Sewell on behalf of the Council.
Lt Col Mark Mackenzie Crooks RA, Commanding Officer, 101st (Northumbrian) Regiment Royal Artillery (Volunteers) signing on behalf of the Army Community.
Ltd Cdr Duncan Young RN, Executive Officer, HMS Calliope signing behalf of the Royal Navy and Merchant Navy Communities.
Flt Lt Pete McKeen RAF, Officer Commander RAF, Armed Forces Careers Office Newcastle signing on behalf of the Royal Air Force Community.
Mr Brian De La Haye OBE, Committee Member signing on behalf of the NE Veterans Advisory & Pensions Committee.
Mrs Margaret Adams, Chair of Blissabilty,signing on behalf of the local Voluntary Sector organisations.
Mr Andrew Drake MBE, Manager, Royal British Legion North East, signing on behalf of the Armed Forces Charitable Sector.
Mrs Angela Anderson, Vice Chair, South Tyneside Business Forum, signing on behalf of South Tyneside Business Community.
Mr David Hambleton, Director of Commissioning and Reform, NHS South of Tyne and Wear, signing on behalf of South Tyneside Primary Care Trust.
Mr Peter Davidson Chair, South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust, signing on behalf of South Tyneside Foundation Trust.
Mr Ian Robertson, Chair, South Tyneside Homes, signing on behalf of South Tyneside Homes.
