PARACHUTISTS dropped in to get Armed Forces Day celebrations in Nottingham off to a flyer.
Four servicemen jumped from 3,000ft above Wollaton Hall for a flag-raising ceremony yesterday which marked the lead-up to Saturday's main festivities in the city.
Around 50 members of the public, as well as local dignitaries, watched as the parachutists descended.
Each trailed a flag in honour of Armed Forces Day, the Army, the Royal Navy and the RAF.
Upon landing, the Armed Forces Day flag was handed to servicemen from S Squadron Royal Yeomanry, based in Carlton, who drove it up to the front of Wollaton Hall aboard their combat vehicles.
The flag was then passed to three local veterans who in turn handed it to three cadets.
Sea cadet Connor Curzon, 15, of Colwick, had the honour of raising the flag.
He said: "I feel really privileged. Not everyone has the chance to do this.
"It's important that everyone, not just the services, comes out and celebrates Armed Forces Day."
Naval veteran Tom Rotherham passed the special flag to Connor.
The 62-year-old, formerly of Aspley, said: "It's our chance to say thank you to our armed forces of today. It's a great honour for the city."
Major Angus Jenkins, commanding officer of the Royal Yeomanry, said Armed Forces Day would be a proud day for 70-strong S Squadron.
He said: "There are a lot of Nottingham guys in the squadron and we are delighted Armed Forces Day is coming to the city. It's lovely to be part of the national focus."
RAF veteran Robert Bramley, 47, of Clifton, attended the ceremony with his daughter, Sarah, 19, who is in the air cadets.
He said: "I'm fourth generation armed forces. I'm a massive supporter – it never leaves your blood.
"I'm hoping people will turn out for Armed Forces Day."
Flag-raising ceremonies were also held in Beeston and Mansfield yesterday.
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