Thousands of people lined the streets of Weymouth to watch the fantastic armed forces parade.

The Esplanade was shut to traffic as a procession made its way along the seafront from the cenotaph near the Pier Bandstand all the way to the Pavilion.

Onlookers clapped, whooped and cheered as marching bands, veterans and historic military vehicles passed by.

Colin BraceyColin Bracey (Image: Hollie Carr)

Colin Bracey is a member of the Aden Veterans Association and was visiting the town from Oxford.

Mr Bracey said: “I come down every year for the parade. It’s very good every year.”

He went on to explain that it’s also a good opportunity to ‘meet a few of his old buds.’

Eight-year-old Hali-Rai Green was watching the parade with her mum Tasha.

Hali-Rai GreenHali-Rai Green (Image: Hollie Carr)

Hali said: “I loved all of it, but I liked the marching bands the best. I’m going to go to the Pavilion to watch the marching band again and then I am going to the Nothe Fort to have a go on the assault course. My fastest time was 10 seconds.

“Yesterday we also went to Dorchester to look at all the vehicles. My favourite was a tank called Bull Dog.”

Prior to the parade, an open-air service was held from 11am for all veterans at the cenotaph.

Wreaths were laid as part of the service, which was attended by local dignitaries, various veterans' associations, representatives from the armed forces, local groups and members of the public.

A minute's silence was held to remember those who gave their lives for their country.

Mr and Mrs Barclay headed down to Weymouth from Bournemouth to enjoy the weekend of armed forces celebrations.

Mr and Mrs Barclay Mr and Mrs Barclay (Image: Hollie Carr)

Mrs Barclay said: “The service and parade were brilliant as normal. I love coming down and meeting friends and for my husband he gets to see all of his comrades – the event really puts Weymouth on the map.”

Mr Barclay is also a member of the Aden Veterans Association.

He added: “People come from all over England and some of them even make it their summer holiday.”

On Saturday, crowds flocked to Weymouth Pavilion to view the impressive military vehicles before they made off in a convoy to Castletown D-Day Centre on Portland.