Daedalus offers a flying tribute for D-Day anniversary

By Connor Steel

EVENT ORGANISERS have thanked local residents for their support as thousands of people and families attended the “Daedalus D-Day 80” spectacle over this weekend; this two day occasion bringing together a large multitude of exciting entertainment, miltary displays, static aircraft vehicles, and flypast performances to mark all the sacrifice made in 1944.

This event was formally started on Saturday morning by Fareham Mayor Pal Hayre and the main attraction was the full schedule of air displays; which included a Spitfire, Harvard, Swordfish, PS1 – Mustang, Reliant, and Autogyro amongst others across both days. There was further great parachute displays by the Navy Raiders and Stearman Wing Walking.

A brief appearance from the Red Arrows simply added to the excitement on Saturday afternoon with the planned BBMF Lancaster Flypast sadly cancelled for Sunday after the passing of RAF Squadron Leader Mark Long. Static aircraft was further available close to the hangers including a communication plane and visitors were able to see inside this cockpit.

Elsewhere there was a selection of entertainment in the Winston Marquee including performances from Ray Coombes, Thorngate Choir, Amy Baker and Timeless, which were all enjoyed by visitors in this area. Meanwhile the displays from Solent Stars Motorcycles and multiple Field Gun Sport Command Groups took place in the Overlord Arena (both days).

Visitors were given a chance to explore and purchase products from many local businesses, who further offered a wide range of food and drink for all to buy throughout. Youngsters were also entertained by activities featuring air-soft, teddy bear carts, fun games, target throwing and a big bubble machine; which raised loud cheers and joyous excited scenes.

Over seven thousand people were in attendance on both days and the majority praised the organisers for their efforts / hard grafts, alongside helping to create this “unforgettable” tribute for our D-Day heroes. However these ‘large’ crowds meant a long queue throughout Saturday in this area and many visitors were turned away as the car park became full.

Organisers addressed the complaints via social media and appeared to make tweaks in preparation for Sunday, which included opening two gates and entrances for ‘ticket holders / pay on the gate’. They also asked that all visitors arrived earlier for the activities and more volunteers were visible; which seemingly helped to manage this lenghly traffic queue.

The organisers have apologised to those affected by the queues and the minority who found the event unsuitable as a result of being turned away; but thanked everybody who brought tickets and enjoyed the activities across the two days. They have asked that any feedback / photographs of this event be sent to their team via info@montserratevents.co.uk.

PICTURED BY NEWBOLD PHOTOGRAPHY / BROOKE WATERS: Scenes from across the 2 days of D-Day 80 event.