AROUND 12,000 residents and visitors took to the streets of Caerphilly to show their support for the Armed Forces community.

The event, organised by a dedicated committee of volunteers and supported by Caerphilly County Borough Council, began with a military parade through Caerphilly town centre, as serving military personnel, cadets and veterans marched through the town.

The day continued with a Drumhead Service on Owain Glyndwr Playing Fields, which was attended by guests and members of the public in their thousands. The service, led by the rev Robin Richardson CF, deputy assistant Chaplain General for Wales saw contributions from guests including the first sea lord sir Philip Jones KCB, ADC, the first minister for Wales, Carwyn Jones AM and the secretary of state for Wales Alun Cairns.

Following the Drumhead Service, the playing fields were taken over by stalls, marquees, demonstrations, an events arena and music stage with a full programme of events, as well as a licensed bar, variety of food stalls and more.

One of the main highlights of the afternoon was a Battle of Britain Spitfire flypast, which performed a display for the thousands of visitors gathered at the event site.

Cllr David Poole, leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “We were delighted to welcome such a prestigious event to Caerphilly, which provided a fitting opportunity for residents and visitors alike to give our thanks for those courageous individuals who serve or have served our country. It was wonderful to see so many thousands of residents and visitors come out and show their support for our Armed Forces community; as the residents of Caerphilly county borough always do.”

Phil Hubbard, chair of the South Wales Armed Forces Day Committee said: “Once again this important annual event in South Wales has grown both in armed forces', veterans' and their families' involvement. The support and attendance of the general public, was fantastic in Caerphilly. I would like to thank everyone who has helped made it possible, especially Caerphilly County Borough Council and all of our sponsors. The military parade, the displays, activities and the entertainment made it a fantastic family day out for everyone who attended.”

Caerphilly’s Armed Forces champion Cllr Alan Higgs added: “This event simply would not have been possible without the dedicated group of volunteers who make up the South Wales Armed Forces Day committee. They don’t receive any special thanks for organising such a spectacular occasion, so it’s important we place on record our appreciation to them for all they do.”