Red Arrows fly over Taunton for Somerset Armed Forces Day

They enjoyed a flypast by the iconic Red Arrows as part of the day of free entertainment.

The RAF's aerobatics display team flew over the county town early in the afternoon as they headed from Teignmouth Airshow to Cardiff.

Members of our Somerset Camera Club were on-hand to capture the moment. Check out our gallery at the top of this story.

In total, Somerset Armed Forces Day organisers believe a total of 36,500 people visited Vivary Park throughout the event.

An event spokesperson said: Thank you to all who took part in Somerset Armed Forces Day: the entertainers, the arena acts, the stalls selling a variety of fabulous items, the blue light zone, all the food vendors selling an amazing range of food, the re-enactors and displays, the owners of the military vehicles, the charities, the cadets, our sponsors and supporters. 

“Without you this would not have been the fantastic day it was. We hope you enjoyed the day as much as we did.”

Cllr Tom Deakin, leader of Taunton Town Council, said: “What an amazing day at Somerset Armed Forces Day!

“The sun was shining and Vivary Park looked awesome.

“Our community is at its best on days like today and I’m really proud Taunton Town Council were able to provide sponsorship again this year.

“A huge well done to the committee and everyone who made it happen.”

A spokesperson for the Taunton Military Wives Choir, who performed on stage one in the afternoon, said: “We had a blast at Somerset Armed Forces Day yesterday.

“We were honoured to be a part of this prestigious event and we definitely felt appreciated by the 36,500 people who supported this military community celebration.

“Thank you to the ladies who joined us from Yeovilton Military Wives Choir.

“Thank you to Taunton Town Council for getting us there. A truly spectacular day.”

The day was opened by Gideon Amos, the new MP for Taunton and Wellington, in his first officially engagement since he was elected on Thursday.