CHILDREN and military personnel took part in independence celebrations held on the site of an Air Force training base.

Stepping Stones Nursery, based at RAF Leeming, marked the anniversary of Fiji’s independence from Great Britain on October 10, 1970.

During the event, children and parents from the nursery learnt about Fijian history and culture including tribal warfare.

They wore traditional dress, sang and danced to Fijian songs and sampled numerous traditional foods.

Flight lieutenant Toga Loco, operational training centre officer who organised the event, said: “Fiji Independence Day provides us, the Fijian diaspora, the opportunity to commemorate Fiji’s coming of age as a nation, post-independence from Great Britain.

“It’s a platform where we can showcase and share bits of our culture, food and heritage with the community at RAF Leeming.

“I find it an honour to lead the small Fijian community on station and create awareness of the diversity we have here at RAF Leeming.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the event and we look forward to organising it again next year.”

Flight lieutenant Jenny Ford, practice nursing officer, and daughter Annabelle took part in the festivities.

Jenny said: “This was a wonderful opportunity to explore the Fijian culture, the traditional music, dancing and delicious food – a day filled with fun with our Fijian friends.”