Organisers have hailed the success of a prominent event as record crowds turned out to recognise our amazing armed forces.

With the strapline of "Honouring Britain's armed forces - past, present and future" the 17th annual Lowestoft Armed Forces Day was successfully held on Royal Green, Lowestoft on Saturday.

Fun for all the family took centre stage with plenty to entertain the large crowds - as an estimated 4,500 people turned out.

Lowestoft Journal: The Fizz entertain the crowds at Armed Forces Day in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesThe Fizz entertain the crowds at Armed Forces Day in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

And there was an added bonus this year, as British pop music group 'The Fizz' - formed of three original members of Eurovision winners Bucks Fizz - hit the stage to great applause.

Lowestoft Journal: The Fizz entertain the crowds at Armed Forces Day in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesThe Fizz entertain the crowds at Armed Forces Day in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

With a traditional drumhead service, military heroes were saluted for serving their country as displays, exhibitions, stalls, marching bands, special attractions and live music all featured alongside poignant tributes to the fallen.

Lowestoft Journal: Armed Forces Day in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick HowesArmed Forces Day in Lowestoft. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

Men, women and veterans of all the armed forces united alongside dignitaries, friends and family as a Spitfire, a range of military vehicles and attractions aplenty drew the crowds.

Cheers and loud applause echoed out across the seafront as 2019 Britain's Got Talent winner - Chelsea pensioner Sgt Major Colin Thackery - and The Fizz both hit the stage and performed, with live music on the day also from the Vibettes, the New Mojos, the Longshoremen and Dale Bullimore.

Lowestoft Journal: Chelsea Pensioner Colin Thackery sitting on big gun with G Battalion 7 th Para Royal Horse Artillery from Colchester. Picture: Mick HowesChelsea Pensioner Colin Thackery sitting on big gun with G Battalion 7 th Para Royal Horse Artillery from Colchester. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Mick Howes)

With Lowestoft town council "proud" to once again be supporting the event, the Mayor of Lowestoft, Cllr Sonia Barker, said: "This event continues to show the community's support for all the Cadets, Reservists, serving Armed Forces personnel and their families and also the employers who employ veterans in our local area."

Ian Wall, event co-ordinator for Lowestoft Armed Forces Day, said: "The entire team are extremely happy with how Saturday’s Lowestoft Armed Forces Day event ran.

"In 2022 we had an estimated 3,500 people attending at peak.

"With the fantastic weather, new exhibitors and new stage acts we estimate we're at least another 1,000 people up on last year."