Stunning, simply stunning!
Those are just a few of the words used by visitors to describe this year's Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day, held in Ryde on Sunday (25 June).
With a new dynamic team led by Councillor Ian Dore, the sense of direction is clear - onwards and upwards.
“It surpassed all expectations and I’m still in shock," said Councillor Dore, chair of Armed Forces Day and Isle of Wight Armed Forces Champion.
"The turnout was phenomenal and it's testament to the decency and strength of character we have, when it comes to supporting our Armed Forces community.
"On the stage at the opening ceremony, it was a sea of faces, young and old, filled with pride and passion.
"The parachute commander said that compared to the event in Portsmouth the week before, from his bird's-eye view, we were busier in Ryde!
"That is such an incredible reflection of how our Armed Services community is valued on the Island."
Those in attendance included HM Lord Lieutenant, Mrs Susie Sheldon, who took the salute of the parade.
She was joined by the High Sheriff, Dawn Haig-Thomas, chair of the council, Claire Critchison, and council leader, Councillor Lora Peacey-Wilcox.
At the saluting dais representing the committee were the patron of Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day, Major General Sir Martin White, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Brigadier Maurice Sheen and their guest of honour, D-Day veteran Roy Hayward.
Sir Martin later spoke passionately about the event in his speech at the closing ceremony.
Photos and videos of the event will be posted up initially on the website and to ensure you don’t miss a thing and to get some exclusives, sign up for the emailing list.
Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day can also be found on Facebook.
Primary School Locked Down After Man Enters In Need Of Medical Assistance
Criminals Dealt Crushing Blow As Seized E-Scooters And Electric Motorcycles Destroyed
Isle Of Wight Weather Warnings Issued With Storm Éowyn Forecast To Bring 80mph Winds
Friends Of St Mary’s Hospital Donate £27,000 To Support Patients And Staff
Wightlink Invests In Its Portsmouth Car Ferry Port
Isle Of Wight Charity Leader Honoured With BBC One Show Recognition
Harbour Dredging To Continue In Bembridge
Farmers Invited To Strike The 'Right Balance' At Isle Of Wight Farming Conference 2025
Time Running Out To Take Part In This Year's Budget Consultation
Man In Custody Following Foiled Ryde Co-op Burglary Attempt
Isle Of Wight MPs On "Dire Situation" Highlighted By Healthwatch Report
'Half-Built Eye-Sore' On Village Seafront Could Be Replaced With Café
East Cowes Residents Set For Tax Increase To 'Save Esplanade Paddling Pool'
Isle Of Wight Youth Services A "Postcode Lottery" Says Councillor
Newport Man Convicted Of Sexually Assaulting Child And Breaching Sexual Harm Prevention Order
Councillor Responds To 27-House Colwell Bay Plan
Island Cocktail Bar Bid To Diversify Offering With Mobile Kitchens Turned Down
New Groyne Construction In Gurnard To Feature Innovative Artificial Rockpools
Isle Of Wight Council Takes Action On Derelict Esplanade Hotel
