THE armed forces were celebrated as several hundred people assembled in glorious sunshine.

The Armed Forces Day Gala took place on Saturday afternoon at Victoria Park in Malvern featuring a wide range of entertainment.

The day started with a parade of cadet groups and a drumhead service at 1.30pm with the salute taken by deputy lord lieutenant of Worcestershire Andrew Duncan and deputy mayor of Malvern Cllr Jeremy Thomas.

Cllr Thomas said: "The day went really well, several hundred people attended and the weather was great which was nice after the horrible weather of last year.

"The cadet groups were well-represented as were armed forces veterans.

"There was a really impressive falconry display and the Guide Dogs for the Blind were popular with visitors.

"Overall, it was a very good way to celebrate the sacrifices made by the armed forces for this country."

Also amongst the attractions on the day was music from Malvern Hills District Brass Band as they marched to commemorate the work done by armed forces past and present for Great Britain.

St Andrew's Pipe Band from Cheltenham also performed on the day whilst there was also a field gun display by the naval cadets.

Harper's vintage rides and some inflatable assault courses ensured there was a wide range of different activities to enjoy.

In addition, children had the chance to go on bouncy castles and helter skelters.

For those interested in historical matters, Discover History showed visitors all about yeomanry recruitment, while Bows Blades and Battles reenacted a World War One surgeon’s station.

And the food and drink village featured a tasty array of stalls, including the Speakeasy Bar, the Indian Rasoi and Becky’s Bhajis.

Armed Forces Day was celebrated across the country on Saturday.