Swanage and Burton said a huge thank you to British troops past and present at events held over the weekend.

The seafront at Swanage swung with the sounds of a 1940s party, including a star turn from wartime singer Jill Daniels.

Sunday’s parade in the town saw veterans and current servicemen march side-by-side, receiving warm applause from the crowds.

A disaster kitchen was set up on Sandpit Field, with ex-navy Chief Petty Officer Steve Hooper showing off his culinary skills using a dustbin, some turf and two old car wheels.

There were also classic military vehicles on show and displays of wartime memorabilia around the town.

Organiser Steve Churchill said: “We’ve had a really good turnout from local people and a good weekend.

“The weather held out which always helps and we were able to present a medal to a 90-year-old veteran which was especially poignant.”

And at Burton Armed Forces Day on Sunday, villagers turned out to honour current service men and women as well as local veterans.

Burton ward councillor Colin Jamieson said: “This is our third annual event and every year it gets bigger and more popular.”

The parish council organised event saw appearances from dignitaries including Brigadier Michael Taylor representing the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset alongside High Sherriff, the Honourable Timothy Palmer and Mayor of Christchurch and former serviceman Cllr Nick Geary.

A parade from Burton Primary School led by the Royal British Legion Band was followed by a drumhead service on the village green with live music wrapping the afternoon celebration of the community’s armed forces.

Members of the Royal Air Force Association, the Royal British Legion and the Not Forgotten Association were also in attendance.