As part of Bangor’s historic 1500th anniversary celebrations, the city will proudly host a grand military parade on Thursday, 29th May 2025, a key highlight in a year of commemorative events. Adding a poignant and deeply personal touch to the occasion, 101-year-old World War II veteran Betty Roberts from Bangor has been invited as a guest of honour.

The parade, which honours both Bangor’s rich military history and its ongoing community spirit, will begin at 11:30 am, at the War Memorial in Glanrafon. The parade will march through the city to the Town Clock, where a formal salute will be given at 12:00 pm, followed by a dramatic low-pass flyover from RAF Valley.

The celebration marks a key moment in the city’s 1500th year, uniting the past and present through ceremony, tribute, and festivity.

Parade Order:

11.00 am: Parade forms up at the War Memorial, Glanrafon.

11.30 am: Parade commences.

12.00 pm: Formal salute at the Town Clock.

12.00 pm: Lowpass Flyover from RAF Valley.

12.30 pm: Parade concludes at Storiel green.

Honouring a local hero

Betty Roberts, who celebrated her 101st birthday this month, represents a living link to the city’s wartime past. Enlisting in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) in 1943, Betty served as a teleprinter operator at RAF Blackbrook during the Second World War, where she played a vital role in the RAF’s communications network. After the war, she married High-Speed Telegraphist Joe Roberts and settled in Bangor, where she has remained a cherished member of the community ever since.

Betty recently reflected on VE Day and her wartime service, saying: “I never imagined the messages I typed would have such importance. We were just doing our duty.” Her quiet bravery and long-standing ties to Bangor make her the perfect guest of honour for this momentous occasion.

A Full Day of Celebration

After the parade concludes at 12:30 pm, visitors are invited to stay and enjoy a vibrant Family Fun Day hosted by Bangor City Council on the green by Storiel Museum and at Tan-Y-Fynwent (next to the city’s main bus stops). Highlights include:

12.30 pm onwards: DJ, Family Entertainment and face painting.

2.00 – 2.15 pm: MPCT Drill (Storiel Green)

2.15 – 2.45 pm: Tenovus Choir

2.45 – 4 pm: Hogia Bonc

4.30 – 5.15 pm: Tacla (1st half)

5.30 – 6.30 pm: Cimera Circus Show (Storiel Green)

6.30 – 7.15 pm: Tacla (2nd half)

The parade and the day’s festivities are free and open to all, and Bangor City Council are inviting the public to come together in a spirit of pride, remembrance, and celebration.

A Milestone in Bangor’s 1500-Year Legacy

Bangor City Director, Dr Martin Hanks said: “This year’s parade is not only a tribute to the military and veterans but also a centrepiece in a broader calendar of events marking Bangor’s 1500th anniversary, a milestone few cities can claim. From historical exhibitions to community projects, Bangor will embrace its heritage with pride throughout 2025.

“To the sound of the military band and marching boots through the streets, the city will not only celebrate its past, but also look ahead with unity and gratitude, inspired by the life and service of guest of honour Betty Roberts.

“Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to line the streets, pay their respects, and be part of a once-in-a-generation celebration.”

Mian photo shows WWII Veteran Betty Roberts from Bangor.