THOUSANDS of people celebrated this year's Armed Forces Day at Himley Hall, making it “the biggest and best yet”.

Sunday's free family day out was organised by Dudley Council and the Black Country Housing Group.

Visitors were wowed by the spectacular Beating Retreat, which brought together marching bands, standard bearers and serving personnel from the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force for a military tradition dating back centuries.

The arena also played host to a gun run drill by the Military Preparation College for Training, a drill and banner display by 347 Dudley Squadron and singing duo The Land Girls, who brought the event to a close with music from the 1940s.

Many veterans were presented with an HM Armed Forces Veterans Badge at the event, which also saw a spitfire flypast by the RAF Battle of Britain Flight Memorial team.

Throughout the day there was a whole host of entertainment across the park for all ages including Punch and Judy shows, story sessions, vintage rides, and a gladiator-themed army duel and bungee run.

There was also the opportunity for people to meet with reservists serving with local units, including B Squadron the Royal Yeomanry, 210 Battery 103 Royal Artillery, the 4th battalion the Mercian Regiment and the Royal Military Police.

Councillor Dave Tyler, the Mayor of Dudley, said: “I was delighted to attend this wonderful event, which grows and grows in popularity with every passing year.

"It was certainly the biggest and best yet and it was wonderful to see veterans recognised for their efforts with the presentation of the badges.

“It was great to see people from all communities across the borough come together for a wonderful family event, and long may it continue.”