A FLYPAST by a Dakota aircraft at this year's Ringwood Armed Forces Day has been cancelled.

Organisers say the aircraft is not fit to fly, but will be replaced by a Spitfire.

The iconic plane will arrive over Carvers Playing Field at 4.45pm on Saturday, June 25.

Steve Nash, who is organising the event, said: "While some may be disappointed about the Dakota I have to say I am over the moon that we now have a visit from a Spitfire which is my all time favourite."

The Armed Forces Day celebrations have been made possible by grants from Ringwood Town Council, the Ministry of Defence and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation.

As well as more than 20 vintage vehicles there will be a display from the Royal Signals based at Blandford, Army Recruiters from Salisbury and various military welfare services.

Live music, re-enactors and cannon fire are also planned, along with bars, food stalls, charity stalls, fair rides and guaranteed fun.

This is the third year the event has taken place.

For more information go to facebook.com/ringwoodevents.