A UNIQUE event that has become an integral part of the Bournemouth Air Festival’s annual calendar has raised more than £4,000 for charity.

The Navy Blue Party, hosted at Hotel Miamar on the East Cliff, saw more than 90 guests enjoying music from HM Royal Marines Band Portsmouth, as well as dinner with military representatives and VIPs, in aid of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.

Hotel Miramar manager Theo Iakimov said: “The Navy Blue Party is a small way for the town to demonstrate its gratitude to military personnel for all that they do, participating in the air festival and protecting our country.

"It was our immense pleasure to welcome top brass from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines together with local dignitaries, and we are appreciative to all guests at the Navy Blue Party for supporting this valuable fundraising event in aid of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity.”

Following the marching band performance on the lawns of Hotel Miramar, Rear Admiral Chris Gardner, Royal Navy and Brigadier Graeme ‘Jock’ Fraser, Royal Marines, together with Tobias Ellwood MP and the Mayors of Bournemouth and Poole, took the salute against the sunset backdrop and night air flying displays.

Tim Corke, south west fundraising manager from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity said:: “All funds raised help us to continue our vision for a world in which sailors, marines and their families are supported, for life.

"From life changing grants during times of immediate need, to smaller deployment grants that aide morale and retention - the RNRMC works hard to ensure that no one is forgotten.”

Senior officers from ten vessels were represented at the Navy Blue Party, together with sea cadets from TS Phoebe who assisted throughout the day.

Following the success of the 2018 Navy Blue Party, Rear Admiral Chris Gardner, HMS Tireless has committed to supporting the event again in 2019.