War heroes will have to travel to Luton to commemorate their fallen comrades on Veterans Day this year – because of a lack of interest from the people of Bedford.

Veterans Day is held on June 27, and was launched two years ago as a way of thanking veterans for their contribution to the country.
But anyone wishing to take part in Bedfordshire will have to travel to Luton.

Major Lawrence Ashbridge, who took part in the Falklands War in 1982 and is now an active member of veterans group the SAMA 82 (South Atlantic Medal Association), said: "I think it is rather sad.

"I go to many veterans' events, from London to Cardiff to Portsmouth to Blackpool. They all seem to mark what the veterans did, yet Bedford does nothing.

"Does it annoy me? No, it doesn't annoy me. It is the times we live in. I think people have got their priorities wrong.

"There are still men and women dying as we speak, in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, some of them members of the Territorial Army.

"You wonder if it is worth it. And the town of Bedford does nothing."
Last year Luton's Veterans Day event was heralded as a major success, after being the first to make use of St George Square in the town centre.

The 2008 event will feature entertainment such as a male voice choir and morris dancers, and will be open to people of all ages.
But so far nothing has been planned for Bedford.

Major Ashbridge, who lives in Moggerhanger, added: "I appreciate what these men and women did and still do for their country. I served for 35 years and still think of them.

"I think that Bedford, the county town, should do something. But I cannot remember the last time it was even mentioned."

Frank Branston, Mayor of Bedford said: "We liaised with the Royal British Legion on this issue last year and will continue to concentrate our efforts marking the annual observance of Remembrance tide events, which we regard as the principal occasions on which this country marks sacrifices made by all who served in past conflicts and recognises those who continue to serve around the world."