ANDOVER’S annual Armed Forces Day returns for a third year this weekend.

The free event, which takes place on Saturday, June 29, at Vigo Park between 10.30am and 6pm, aims to bring together Andover’s military and civilian communities.

Visitors will experience a huge range of displays and activities for all the family.

An Apache fly-past is expected at around 2.30pm, with side-shows from the Army Cadets, Army Air Corps and 22 Engineer Regiment plus a large display of military assets from Perham Down’s Royal Engineers.

Further performances will also take place through the day with one of the UK’s most in-demand medieval re-enactment troupes ‘The Paladins’ taking to the stage, as well as live music from local singer-songwriter Alex Krupa, Lizzie Cullen and the Covergirlz’ ‘Vintage Sweethearts’.

There will also be displays from one of the world’s only children’s motorcycle display teams, ‘The Rockets’.

A spokesperson for The Rockets said: “Combining adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this talented troupe of young boys and girls will have two performances at Armed Forces Day with their airborne stunts and formation riding performance.

“The courage of these children will undoubtedly leave everyone in Andover wowed.”

This year’s event is hosted with support of local businesses and all three of the town’s local councils. A 28-page souvenir brochure is available on the day, for a small donation.

Event organiser Mo Sweeney said: “Princess of Wales Royal Regiment will also have a presence at Vigo Park on Saturday with visitors having the chance to learn more about the work of our armed forces personnel.

“We are also proud to welcome a great many young cadets from the RAF, Royal Navy and British Army.

“There will be a special presentation to our military veterans by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire and the Mayor of Test Valley around 3pm.

“The event is to celebrate the work of our Armed Forces past, present and future.”