A RED Arrow fly-past which left a distinct trail of red, white and blue over The Council House marked the start of Armed Forces Day.
Thousands of people came out to thank the military and recognise the sacrifices they make to keep the country safe. Veterans wore their medals with pride, youngsters enthusiastically waved Union Jack flags and military personnel paraded through the streets.
The Old Market Square was alive with spectators as the parade stepped off from Nottingham Castle into the centre of the city.
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were there to represent the Queen and the Duke gave recognition to the forces and the city of Nottingham.
He said: "Congratulations for the turn out and your ability to show the nation what you are. The support and sacrifice is alive and well in this city."
They met with members of the public including 74-year-old Mary Buttle from Rise Park, who spoke to the Duchess.
She said: "It was really lovely to meet her. The atmosphere today is fantastic and it shows good support for the armed forces in Nottingham."
Warrant officer 1 Dickie Henderson of the Royal Navy state ceremonial team, summed up what the day's about.
He said: " It's all about the public showing their support for the armed forces but likewise the forces showing their support to the public and to say thank you."
People were hanging out of windows and standing up on high ledges to see the spectacle of the parade arriving in the Old Market Square.
Councillor David Trimble, portfolio holder for leisure and culture, said to the crowd:"Nottingham is indeed proud and delighted to be leading the national celebration for this year's Armed Forces Day.
"It provides a fantastic opportunity for the people of Nottingham and the rest of the country to thank the military personnel for all of the sacrifices they make for each and every one of us."
World War II veteran Michael Murry, 91, of Bestwood Park, was moved by the parade.
He said: " It's very touching, it's lovely. To see everybody here supporting the troops. it's been excellent. It couldn't have been better."
Fellow veteran Aubrey Sales, 89, who was in the Royal Navy during World War II, thought the whole day reflected well on the city.
He said: "It was marvellous. Today I feel proud to be a member of the forces and to represent Nottingham."
Down at the Victoria Embankment there was a party atmosphere with live music, army tanks for children to explore, medieval reenactments and people enjoying picnics on the grass.
Friends Melanie Croft, 50 and Jackie Douglasscorr, 36, both from Burton Joyce, were enjoying a fly past by a Spitfire.
Jackie said: "They need to do more events like this so the young ones can be reminded of all they do for us."
Melanie added: It's been a fabulous day. We are very proud of our armed forces and it's nice to be able to go up to them and say 'you are doing a cracking job'."
