RACEGOERS showed their support for the armed forces at the weekend at a special fundraising event.

Redcar Racecourse held its annual Help for Heroes family fun day race meeting on Sunday which saw nearly 4,000 people turn out to show their appreciation for charities Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion.

Alongside the eight races, the Royal British Legion standard bearers held a parade along the final furlong of the racecourse, which culminated in a two-minute silence to remember all those who have served in the forces.

The parade was led by Eric Howden, BEM, who was awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List last month.

Mr Howden, who is a member of the Royal Army Ordinance Corps having served in Germany and Singapore, said: “The service personnel always receive a wonderful, warm reception, which we really appreciate.

“People came from all around the North East to attend this special raceday and it was a lovely feeling to see so many turn out to show their respect for the veterans.”

The parade also included veterans and members of the Armed Forces Bikers, the Cleveland Army Cadet Force marching band, 2394 Squadron Air Training Corps, Cleveland Army Cadets, and Sea Cadets from the Training Ship Zetland.

A number of serving and former armed service personnel attended the event and were granted free entry into the racecourse on the day, in recognition of their service.

Redcar Racecourse’s next meeting will be Caribbean Carnival Day on Saturday, August 6.