THOUSANDS of people turned out to honour the Armed Forces who risk their lives in battle zones around the world, at North Lincolnshire's inaugural Armed Forces Day.

Families and friends from around the region and further afield were treated to a Forces fly-past, a military parade, demonstrations and, most importantly for many, the chance to meet those who serve the country and give thanks.

Gurkhas, Chelsea Pensioners, the Territorial Army (TA) and officers from Kirton's RAF Air Control Centre were among those who were on hand throughout the celebrations and all said support and feedback from the public had been "fantastic".

Organiser Doug Gawley, of the Scunthorpe Armed Forces Day Events Committee, said the day had gone "even better than expected" and confirmed a second Armed Forces Day would go ahead next year.

He said: "I can confirm the event will be on June 25 next year and I hope people will show the same support then.

"I'm delighted with how today has gone, the turnout has been fantastic and we've had beautiful weather – the feedback I've had has all been superb.

"We couldn't have done this without Christine Edwards and her team, so I owe them a huge thank you.

"It's cost us about £35,000 in total to hold the event today, but I think we'll raise quite a lot; whatever we get will be split evenly between a fund for next year, Help For Heroes and a charity for the children of those killed in battle.

"It was a lot of hard work, but it was absolutely worth it."

The festivities began with a parade whose participants ranged from Cub Scouts as young as five or six to war veterans in their 80s.

As those who serve their country paraded through the streets of Ashby, accompanied by military band music, members of the public turned out to support them.

The focus then moved to Quibell Park, where visitors could see a replica Army camp of the type soldiers would live in inside a war zone, try their hand at moving an Army crane, try out a canoe and much more.

Captain Peter Graves, of the TA, said a personal highlight for him was the parade.

"It's been a brilliant day, for me the best bit was the parade – seeing everyone from the little Cubs to an 87-year-old veteran who's still going strong," he said.

"The event has been a real success, I'm very pleased to be a part of it, it's really been fantastic – we actually underestimated the support we'd get."

Entertainment at the park included something for everyone, with fly-pasts from a Spitfire and a Sea King helicopter, face painting, food, fairground rides, representation from all emergency services and much more.

Chelsea Pensioner Busty Peart said: "The day has been marvellous, the parade impressed me more than anything.

"So many people have approached me today and they've all said they want to support the event.

"It was important for me to be here today."

Families turned out in their droves, including mum Sara Russell and her sons, Mason and Harry, of Broughton.

She said: "I wanted to come along to show support for the troops, the kids are really Army oriented, they're really interested in everything."

Callum Law, 10, of Broughton, scored full marks on the TA's crane task and said he had enjoyed the event so much he could not pick a highlight.

"Everything has been good, I enjoyed getting my face painted and I had a go at holding the gun, it's really interesting.

"I think I might like to be in the Army when I'm older."

His mum, Jane Law, said honouring servicemen and women was an important part of why she wanted to take part in Armed Forces Day.

She said: "They should hold it every year, we've had a fantastic time and it's good to get a chance to pay tribute to the Armed Forces.

"There's loads to do, I've been impressed."

Gurkhas and their families turned out in force for the festival. Veteran Dursa Limbo, of Doncaster, said he was pleased to be part of it.

"The celebrations have been great, it's very good to be here, spending time with colleagues and family.

"I've had many positive comments from people and everyone is in very good spirits, the atmosphere is very good."

Vice Lord Lieutenant Graham Rowles Nicholson also made an appearance at the festivities.

He said: "Some of the Armed Service personnel have come a long way to be here today and the event really is excellent. The parade was wonderful.

"I'm delighted the response from the public has been so positive."