AN EVENT has been organised in Rhyl in June to mark the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War.

Richard Kendrick, who helps funds for the Royal British Legion (RBL) and numerous other charities, has arranged the event, which will take place at Rhyl Events Arena on June 14, from 10am – 2pm.

This will mark the date the Falklands War ended, having begun 10 weeks earlier between Argentina and the UK regarding two British dependent territories in the South Atlantic.

A number of Rhyl schools will be in attendance, as well as veterans and their families, cadets and vicars from the area.

Having hosted a hugely successful event in 2019 to mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day, Richard hopes this proves similarly worthwhile.

He said: “I want the children to understand the importance of this day. 255 men lost their lives; 25 from North Wales... one guardsman, Paul Green (former Rhyl High School pupil), died on June 8 on the Sir Galahad.

“Before, the children didn’t get to meet many veterans (from D-Day) as most had passed away. This time, there will be lots of veterans and their families.

“Three years ago, we held a 'DDAY75' event, and had over 3,000 people attend; most were local children. Rhyl went worldwide on TV; I’m hoping for double that amount this time.

“It would be amazing to have other schools, and see the arena full of children listening to stories from the conflict. We will have cadets reading passages out.

“Rhyl BID are helping, (but we) could do with another company (sponsoring). I’ve raised £300 as well. We’re hoping local restaurants will do offers for veterans who attend.

“We also have crochet soldiers being made; they will be available on the day to buy. Lots of local people are making them for us.”

“We are all living with veterans from the Falklands, whereas veterans from past wars have past away. I see them daily; so are many from North Wales, and so many didn’t come back.”

For more information, you can email Richard at: kendrick7396@gmail.com.

READ MORE:

Giant poppy man created as part of Rhyl's Armistice Day plans

Rhyl schoolchildren to join veterans at Armistice Day ceremony

Bear meets the public as '40s music rings out across Rhyl High Street