FUNFAIRS and festivals delighted people all across Oxfordshire this weekend, as towns and villages celebrated their troops on Armed Forces Day.

The special day is held each year to show support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community, from currently serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets.

People of all ages in Witney, Carterton, Grove and Bicester marked the occasion with parades, fairground rides and live music.

Carterton residents attended a short service in the market square on Saturday morning followed by a day of family fun and games, free of charge, at the recreation ground.

Organiser of the funfair Martin Gillett said: "It's just to try and ensure inclusion for all. We want to educate parents that you don't have to spend money to play with your kids."

Evie Winship, four, enjoyed singing and playing instruments with Salt Box Music Company at the event.

Her mum Tracy, from Carterton, said: "She's really enjoying it so far. She loves music."

Organisers of the various celebrations feared heavy rain could put people off the outdoor events, but happy festival-goers braved it out until the sky cleared.

The day for Carterton culminated with an evening of music from local bands at Carterton Community college, as part Fake Festival.

Linking up with Bicester Carnival on Saturday, Bicester Squadron ATC led an Armed Forces Day procession through the town.

Adults and children alike enjoyed fairground rides, military displays and a music stage after the parade.

Councillor Richard Mold said of the day: "It was such a great turnout for the carnival considering the terrible weather. Local organisations and charities have all come out to show the people of Bicester the great work they do."

In Grove on Friday, pupils at Millbrook School took part in a special two-day event with soldiers from Dalton Barracks in Abingdon, which gave them the chance to try all kinds of military activities.

Children enjoyed making flags, exploring the inside of army trucks, and practising military techniques.

Witney also celebrated in style for Armed Forces Day, with a festival at the town's rugby football club in Hailey yesterday.

Organiser Liam Walker planned a day of live music, children's entertainment and military trucks, with a special Witney FC vs RAF Brize Norton rugby game in the afternoon.

Status Quo drummer John Coghlan also made an appearance at 6pm to perform to crowds.