THIS year’s annual Burton Armed Forces and Veterans Day is set to be visited by a legend of the Royal Air Force.

The event, which is in its 11th year, is set to feature a flypast from one of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Spitfire aircraft next Sunday.

Subject to weather and serviceability, the plane will come over the village at 1.09pm.

The day runs from 1pm to 6pm at Burton Village Green.

A parade will take place through the village with soldiers, veterans and cadets.

The salute will be to the deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dorset John Young and Mayor of Christchurch Lesley Dedman.

Burton Parish Council will be represented by Cllr David Flagg and Rev Nigel Lacey will be in attendance and leading the drumhead service.

Gareth King, Burton Armed Forces and Veterans Day chairman, said: “Our event is held with the aim of bringing together the armed forces, veterans and the surrounding communities in our area – in order to celebrate the work the armed forces do and as a way for the local people to say thank you to all the hard work and sacrifice they have done and currently do around the world and in the UK.

“We also aim to raise as much money as we can for the various armed forces charities which are in attendance, there will be various tombolas and cake stalls on the day. Unique Construction Ltd will also be running a premium raffle. Tickets will be on sale on the day.”

A range of vintage military vehicles will be on display, with live music from the Ringwood Pipe Band, the Christchurch and District Band, and Miss Annie, who will be singing all the wartime favourites.

For the first time this year the Bournemouth Lindy Hop dance troupe will be showcasing their jitterbug jive dancing at the event.

Jaqueline Hurley will be displaying her ‘war poppy collection’ art work - which has been displayed in the National Memorial Arboretum.

The Hop on Inn licensed bar will be on offer with refreshments. Any serving member of the armed forces who attends in uniform will get a free drink at the bar.

A selection of stalls from various military charities will also be in attendance, including Help For Heroes, The Royal British Legion, The RAF Association, Bournemouth War Memorial Homes Trust and The Pilgrim Bandits.

Organisers are still seeking sponsorship and volunteers for the day. To get involved contact burtonvetsday@mail.com

For more information about the event visit www.burtonvetsday.com