LARGE crowds packed into Victoria Park for a celebration of the armed forces on Saturday – and enjoyed a glorious sunshine and plenty of fun.

The free event, which included a parade, involved displays from St Helens, Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside regiments.

Traditionally, the celebration is held in St Helens town centre, but as part of the borough’s 150th anniversary, it was moved to the park.

And community groups and families responded positively – turning out in force for a day that brought memories of festivals held in other parks in years gone by, such as the show at Sherdley Park.

Youngsters enjoyed attractions that included vintage military vehicles, stalls, a funfair and a climbing wall – as well as musical performances at the Victoria Park bandstand from the Lancashire Artillery Pipes and Drum, the Lancashire Artillery Volunteers Band, and local school choirs.