SOLDIERS from 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery visited King’s Ford Infant School and Nursery in Colchester to mark Armed Forces Day.

The airborne gunners showed children their vehicles and radios and set up an assault course at the school, in Gloucester Avenue, which has about a third of its pupils from Army families.

Headteacher Pam Rose said: “The soldiers’ visit has been interesting and enjoyable.

“It’s helped the children and staff understand more about the Army and the background of our children from Army families.”

Gunner Ben Pinkney said: “The children have been really enthusiastic and interested to find out about our equipment and what we do.”