FAMILIES and the armed forces came together to celebrate Bicester’s proud military links at yesterday's carnival.

And soldiers described the day as a “morale boost”.

Festivities kicked off with a parade of military vehicles, floats, dancers and youth groups through the town.

The procession made its way to Oxford Road Sports Field, where there were fairground rides, stalls and entertainment.

The carnival celebrated Armed Forces Day, which took place last month, and paratroopers dropped into the field to mark the occasion.

Colonel Angus Mathie, the commander of Bicester Garrison, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that so many people have come here today.

“It shows how much support people in the town give to the armed forces here.

“Soldiers really need to know, especially when they’re overseas, that they have the support of people behind them. That really is a morale booster.”

Michelle Rogers, 32, of Blenheim Drive, Bicester, attended with her daughter Zora, three. She said: “The carnival shows that the military are part of the community just as much as other people here.”

Mrs Rogers’ husband, Anthony, 33, is currently in Germany with the Royal Logistic Corps.

Lynn Wadley, 56, of Churchill Road, Bicester, said: “It’s definitely the best carnival yet.

“There seems to be a lot more buzz and more going on than in previous years, and the children are having great fun.

“It’s important for the community to get out and participate in something together and it’s great that the military are here. They’re an important part of Bicester and always have been.”

Mrs Wadley attended with husband Keith, 59, granddaughter Abigail, nine weeks, and daughter Helen Dabell, 31, whose husband, Chris, 27, is currently in Afghanistan with the Royal Signals.

Gareth Bevan, 38, of Bure Park, Bicester, said: “The atmosphere is really good and it is nice for the community to get together somewhere other than Bicester Village.”

He attended with partner Emma Sweetland, 35, and their children, Samuel, three, and Charlotte, 19 months.

Bicester mayor Rose Stratford opened the event, which was organised by the town council.

She said: “When we brought the carnival back about 12 years ago we weren’t sure it would take off again, but it seems to have got better every year.

“The carnival is a way of getting all the town together and enjoying themselves, and we’re glad to have the armed forces here. We like to work closely with them.”