AN AFTERNOON drizzle could not dampen the spirits of thousands of people who descended on Trowbridge Park for this year’s Armed Forces and Veterans Weekend celebrations.

The two-day occasion, which celebrates and remembers the veterans and serving members of the armed forces, saw around 15,000 children and adults make the most of the free event.

This year, the tri-service celebrations focussed on a royal navy lead drumhead service for Sunday’s parade through the centre of the town which was led by the Shrewton Silver Band.

The weekend provided a nostalgic memories for some including 94-year-old Joyce Hunt who was able to see a Spitfire on display after helping to build the wings at the Trowbridge factories.

She said: “I used to build the wings at Hilperton and Bradley Road and one year, Princess Mary came to the factory to see all of us.

“We built the wings in pairs and I am very proud of myself to be here. I think every woman who worked on the Spitfire enjoyed their job especially working on the wing.”

Other attractions included a display by C Company Rolling History – a fourth generation family group based in Westbury.

Audrey Couldrake from the group said as collectors of military memorabilia dating from the Zulu war, occasions like the Armed Forces Weekend allow the whole family to get together.

“We have so much memorabilia that it fills up two houses and two garages – we really need a museum.”

A whole host of re-enactment groups took over the bottom field in the park including the Echelon and the Panzer Grenadiers who re-enacted what the Second World War was like on the German side.

Another firm favourite with crowds was the Warminster Military Wives who performed on Saturday – a fifth time that they’ve showcased their vocal abilities at the Armed Forces weekend.

Managing director Donna-Kate Wilson said: “We cover all three armed forces in our choir and the recognition the ladies get is just incredible. The atmosphere at the weekend is so welcoming and I think they are so proud of themselves.”

Organiser Maryrose Mantle added: “Despite the weather, people turned out and crowds were as high as last year.

“There were so many smiling faces which was lovely to see and particularly with the parade which always draws in a crowd and people from Trowbridge, Wiltshire and further afield came out to support our armed forces.”