A STAGGERING 50,000 people descended on East Park for the ninth Hull Veterans' Weekend.
People of all ages flocked to the park in honour of the country's Armed Forces, past and present.
Widely considered to be the highlight of the year for many who have served in Britain's conflicts, this year's event was bigger and better than ever.
Highlights of the two-day event included battle re-enactments, with scenes from the American Civil War and both world wars.
Visitors also had the opportunity to have their picture taken with the only hand-built, full-size reproduction Spitfire MKIX aircraft.
Terry Arlow, of Simply Spitfires, which owns the replica model, was on his first visit to Hull.
He said: "This Spitfire has taken more than 20 years to build and was completed in May 2010 using many genuine Spitfire parts and built from copies of the original drawings.
"It is a fascinating piece of equipment and people have been stopping by all day to ask questions about it and get a closer look."
Another highlight of the weekend was the skydiving display by the Red Devils – members of the Parachute Regiment.
Anita Adams, of north Hull, attended the event on Saturday with her husband Allan and grandson Ben, ten.
Mrs Adams said: "We have had a fantastic time looking at the artefacts and items on display.
"There has been something for all generations here visiting for the day.
"For the younger ones, it gives them an insight into what the country used to be like and they learn a little history, while for the older generation it takes us back to thinking about what it was like when our grandparents were alive.
"The city should feel extremely proud to host such a wonderful event."
Visitors were also able to learn more about life during the American Civil War, which took place between 1861 and 1865.
Helen Needham, of the American Civil War Society, attended the event with other members of the society to re-enact scenes from the middle of the 19th century.
She said: "There is a fantastic atmosphere here in Hull. Events like this are wonderful for the whole family and we are enjoying being here."
Vicki Rollinson and partner Peter Ball, of Willerby, took their two children, Frankie, three, and Sonny, 18 months, to East Park on Saturday to see the attractions on offer.
Miss Rollinson said: "It is great that an event as big as this is free to attend.
"We have watched the battle reenactments and the boys have really enjoyed themselves.
"We came to the event last year and, to be honest, this year looks even better."
A charity tank pull organised by the Army also entertained the crowds.
Lieutenant Mike Parr said: "The tank weighs ten tonnes and there is a slight uphill gradient to pull it over, so it really is good exercise."
The truck pull was organised to raise money for BLESMA, a national charity that supports servicemen and women who have lost limbs or the use of limbs during battle.
Lieutenant Parr said: "We've had the Hull Ladies Rugby Club enter and local gyms and the support from the crowds has been fantastic."
Event organiser Honorary Alderman Brian Petch said: "This has been very much a family event. We wanted families to come along, have fun and honour our forces, past and present.
"We must never forget the past and those who fought for the freedom we all enjoy today.
"But it is also important that we recognise today's generation, who continue to defend our country."
• Have you seen our new homepage? Bookmark hulldailymail.co.uk for the very best and exclusive local content.
• Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
