March Armed Forces Fair is hit with visitors in town park

A town park was crowded with visitors on Sunday for an event celebrating all things military.

The third annual March Armed Forces Fair, held in West End Park, was a huge hit with visitors coming from across the district to enjoy a free day of entertainment and attractions.

The day was packed with military displays, interactive stands, live entertainment, and loads of stalls, some charity, some offering advice on careers in the armed forces.

Among the stalls was one run by town councillor Rob Skoulding, who was promoting his charity Defibrillators for March. He was delighted that the end of the day saw a total of £741 raised to help provide more of the life-saving machines in the town.

A parade of Chelsea Pensioners at the March Armed Forces Fair. (Image: Steve Barclay) The event itself was organised once again by retired army Lt Col Nigel 'Spence' Spencer, with the help of a dedicated group of volunteers, and as usual, it ran like clockwork

There was a park and ride service run free of charge by FACT Community Transport from the railway station and the Neale-Wade Academy to keep traffic congestion to a minimum.

March Armed Forces Fair was meant to be a one-off when it was first held in 2022, but it has proved such a hit with the local community it has now become a calendar fixture.

Local MP Steve Barclay was among the many dignitaries to attend, he said: "The March Armed Forces Fair on Sunday was an amazing event to be part of!

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A ceremony of was held at the start and end of the day. (Image: Steve Barclay) "It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying themselves and showing support.

"A huge well done to Nigel 'Spence' Spencer and all the volunteers who worked so hard to make this such a great event."