PICTURES: Thurso Armed Forces Day back and proud to support local community
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A Thurso fun day that has been in abeyance for more than a decade has been a "roaring success" after returning at the weekend.
Organisers estimated that a few thousand people turned up at the Armed Forces Day which took place over five hours on Sunday and raised thousands of pounds for local causes.
Lord Thurso, the Lord-Lieutenant of Caithness, officially opened the event, which the local Royal British Legion Scotland (RBLS) branch decided to reintroduce in the town to show support for the UK armed forces, past and present, and their families while promoting the contribution that the RBLS makes locally, regionally and nationally.
Activities on the day included local produce stalls, children’s games, a bouncy castle, face-painting, an armed forces scavenger hunt, a best-dressed superhero competition, a river duck race and a barbecue, along with tea and coffee.
Mac MacGill, chairman of the Thurso branch of RBLS, said the duck race was – to their surprise – one of the most popular attractions.
"I think it was a really positive experience all round," he said.
"Our main aims for the day were to support the armed forces and be part of the national celebrations, and also to support the local community.
"I think it's been a roaring success on both fronts."
Those who took part in the event included UK armed forces, veterans, cadet forces, Highland dancers and emergency services, while Thurso and District Pipe Band and Pentland Brass Band both played.
Mr MacGill said that the Armed Forces Day event had raised around £4000 for the Legion branch, which he said would be used to help local causes.
He added: "We hope to make this an annual event, and if it raises some money for the Legion as well, that means we can help out the community more."
Lord Thurso said: “It was tremendous to see the support for our forces at the excellent day put on by RBLS Thurso.
"The rain held off and and the hall was full with varied events and visitors. The Legion, who do so much for veterans, are to be congratulated on a great day.”
