PEACE campaigners challenged wasteful Armed Forces Day displays over the weekend, saying that “war is not family entertainment.” 

The Peace Pledge Union (PPU), ForcesWatch, Campaign Against Arms Trade and Quakers in Britain protested against the military displays with counter-activities across the country.

The Ministry of Defence has awarded £480,000 in grants to Armed Forces Day events nationwide this year. At least six of the world’s largest arms companies have also sponsored them, with both BAE Systems and QinetiQ handing over £100,000.

Rushmoor Borough Council in Hampshire, which was captured by Reform in May, has agreed to fund any shortfall for Armed Forces Day events, which have been described as “family entertainment” set to raise more than £680,000.

The PPU’s Geoff Tibbs said: “War is not family entertainment. 

“In the midst of increasing violence and global insecurity, we should be focusing on creating sustainable peace, not presenting violence as fun and exciting.”

Dixe Wills, from Quakers in Britain, said: “Armed Forces Day promotes the idea that armed force is something to be celebrated. 

“It’s no wonder that some of the event’s most prominent sponsors are arms companies: the only winners in the current global arms race.”

Kirsten Bayes, from Campaigns Against Arms Trade, said: “Arms companies and the military use these kinds of events to launder their reputation. 

“While it may appear ‘family friendly,’ there are real concerns about human rights abuses and war crimes committed with British-made weapons. 

“The past quarter century of continual war should properly lead to a period of sober reflection by the armed forces, not jamborees where the handling of deadly military equipment by children is presented as normal.”

The council was contacted for comment.