THE Burton Armed Forces and Veterans Day will be marking its 10th anniversary this year.

The popular event, started by Burton ward councillor and village resident Colin Jamieson in 2008, will feature a bumper programme of events, the highlight of which is a flypast by the Dakota aircraft.

Taking place this year on Sunday June 11, the event will also include the traditional parade through the village, followed by a drumhead service.

There will be live music from the Ringwood Pipe Band, Christchurch and District Band as well as Miss Annie singing wartime favourites.

The Hop on Inn bar will also return, along with stalls from military charities and organisations and children's entertainment.

It was started by Cllr Jamieson and Burton Parish Council ten years ago to show support for British troops fighting in conflicts around the world, particularly those in Afghanistan and Iraq.

It was a way of showing the community of Burton cared about those servicemen, and those involved in previous conflicts, said Cllr Jamieson.

Over the years, it has evolved to became a staple in the village calendar, increasing in popularity and is now attended by hundreds of residents.

This year it will be held between 1pm and 6pm.

Artist Jacqueline Hurley will be displaying her war poppy collection, which was last month on display at the National Memorial Arboretum.

Gareth King, chairman, said: "Our event is held with the aim of bringing together the armed forces, veterans and the surrounding communities in our area to celebrate the work they do.

"It is also a way to say thank you for all the hard efforts and endeavour. We also aim to raise as much money as we can for the various charities in attendance."

Any member of the armed services who attends in uniform will get a free drink at the bar.

Anyone able to sponsor part of the day or volunteer to help, is asked to email burtonvetsday@mail.com or go to burtonvetsday.com.