Thousands of residents and visitors flocked to the Seafront Greens on Saturday 24 June to enjoy another successful Armed Forces Day event organised by the Town Council and supported by Harbour Park. The event, in aid of the Royal British Legion celebrated and honoured those that serve and have served in the Armed Forces.

At 10.30am local veterans and uniformed groups mustered at Arun Parade before marching down South Terrace and into the East Green arena to take part in a traditional Drumhead Service which kicked off a packed day of attractions and entertainment.
Following the Service, all eyes were on the sky as pilot Richard Goodwin of the Pitts Special Aerobatic Team manoeuvred the low cloud cover to put on an impressive aerial display over the sea. The BBMF Spitfire Display scheduled for 2.30pm was cancelled due to mechanical issues with the BBMF fleet, affecting numerous Armed Forces Day events around the country.

Spectators surrounding the main arena were treated to two performances from the Moto Stunts International Display Group. The team, which included father and son duo, Anthony and Brandon Baily put on an impressive show by taking on numerous death-defying stunts and jumps. Crowds cheered the team as they leapt over numerous vehicles and through fire.

More exciting entertainment followed with a very special performance from the Band and Bugles of the Rifles, who returned to the event for a second consecutive year. The Band and Bugles of the Rifles is a military band serving as the regimental band for The Rifles, the sole rifle regiment and the largest in the British Army. 

Other highlight attractions included the Army Cadets KITCAR displays and assault course, the Cadets Massed Band and RAFA 381 Bognor Regis Choir performances on the Stage by the Sea, an armoured vehicle display, performances from the Rose and Thistle Pipe Band and vintage trio the Silhouette Show in the main arena, a display of military vehicles, vintage fire engines and a variety of exhibits and activities in the Littlehampton Museum tent, which was also occupied by the Tangmere Aviation Museum Team.

Speaking about the event, Vice-Chair of the Community Resources Committee, Councillor Billy Blanchard-Cooper, said: “It was a great day from start to finish. I would like to thank all of the community groups, performers, contractors, the RNLI, Foreshore Office, Coastguard and Harbour Board who helped our events team make the day happen. Thank you to everyone who made a donation to the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal. The event continues to be so well supported and it is fantastic to see so many people of all ages enjoying themselves. I would also like to thank Harbour Park in particular who support the event each year.’’

Visit our Facebook Page to see a photo album from the day.