SCORES of veterans and their partners from across Dorset came together to enjoy a festive lunch.

The Poole Branch of the Royal Air Force's Association (RAFA) held a special anniversary event at the Ocean Beach Hotel and Spa in Bournemouth on Wednesday (DEC7) to celebrate 70 years since the branch was formed, which was attended by over 70 people.

Diners on the guest list includes fellow members of RAFA from Christchurch, Sturminster Newton, Shaftesbury, Wimborne and Weymouth, as well as Air Marshal Sir Dusty Miller KBE, who serves as the national president of RAFA.

Reverend Lucy Holt, the Rector of St James' Church in Poole Old Town who conducts the Poole branch's annual Battle of Britain Service in September, was also invited to attend the lunch.

Mike Davis, chairman and secretary of the Poole Branch of RAFA, said: "We had a good turnout this year with representatives from many Dorset branches.

"This event has been held annually for the past six or seven years to celebrate Christmas and enable members of the various branches to meet up and socialise. We also have a similar event on St George's Day."

Music for the lunch was provided by vintage-style singer, Miss Annie, featuring a host of tunes from the 1940s and 50s.