Hundreds of ex-Servicemen and women from across Kent will attend the South East’s “flagship” Veterans’ day at Chatham’s Historic Dockyard in July.

The event will be combined with celebrations for Kent TA100, to mark the centenary of the Territorial Army’s formation.

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Organisers say the aim of the day, on July 5, is part of a nationwide Government initiative to recognise the veterans’ contribution to their country. They also intend it to be a day of family entertainment.

Bill Fowler, the Historic Dockyard's events manager, said:"We want to to be a kind of old-fashioned Army open day. It's going to be a real extravaganza, with plenty for the kids to do."

Attractions will include a collection of military and naval hardware and equipment. Youngsters can drive a crane, take aim on a laser range or take a military assault boat ride. There’ll be an infantry soldier dress-up, an assault course challenge, or try their hand at mine detecting and battlefield first aid.

A morning service will be held in the Royal Dockyard Church to celebrate and remember the services of veterans and the current Armed Forces. A parade of Armed Forces personnel and veterans led by the Royal Marines Band will follow.

From midday onwards, a dedicated veterans’ Reunion Hall will be open in the historic 5 Covered Slip where entertainment will be provided by a number of performers.

The award -winning attractions of the Historic Dockyard will be open as usual, including the newly-opened 3 Slip with its collection of historic Royal Engineers’ vehicles and equipment.

The day will be brought to a close by one of the most emotive of military occasions - a Beating Retreat and Ceremonial Sunset on the Parade Ground. This separately ticketed event will feature the Band of HM Royal Marines, The Kohima Band of the Princess of Wales Regiment, The Fifes and Drums of the Cinque Ports Rifle Volunteers and the City of Rochester Pipe Band.