The Royal Navy Parachute Display Team will be back by popular demand at this year’s Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day. Last year they were one of the highlights of the show and they’ll be dropping in on Ryde beach on the afternoon of Sunday 30th June. The team jump with coloured smoke and flags, in a spectacular display of military precision, discipline and teamwork. Ian Dore, Armed Forces Day organiser, has said:
“It ticks the excitement box every time. What could be more bonkers than falling out of a perfectly serviceable aircraft, then landing on a beach from 6,000 feet? “In all seriousness, last year they were right on the envelope because of the wind, and it really was touch and go. In true derring-do style and not wanting to let the crowd down, out they came. Twenty seconds of freefall at 120mph, then onto the sand. Touchdown! “They are a fantastic addition to the event so thanks to Wightlink for making it happen”.
This thrilling element of the event is sponsored by Wightlink. The cross-Solent operator’s commercial director, Phil Delaney, says:
“Wightlink is honoured to be part of this year’s Armed Forces Day, as we remember the D-Day landings, 80 years on. “Armed Forces Day both raises money for very good causes and celebrates the achievements of our brave men and women in uniform, plus of course cadets, veterans, and their families. “As supporters of the Armed Forces Covenant, Wightlink is proud to employ many ex-service people too. We are certainly looking forward to what is going to be an exciting and historic day.”
Wightlink is also offering a 20% saving on foot, car and motorcycle ferry travel to the Isle of Wight for Armed Forces Day, between 29th June 2024 and 1st July 2024.
Better than the usual crap that drops on Ryde beach.