A faultless parachute display by the Falcons and a visit by TV celebrity Sharron Davies were among the attractions at a farewell spring gala, writes David Horne.

Hundreds of spectators attended the two-day event at The Leys recreation ground, Witney, helping to raise more than £1,000.

Gala organiser Ray Agg, of the 212 Witney Squadron Air Training Corps, said: "It was a brilliant weekend, one of our best."

It was the last because next year the event is due to join forces with the town's other major event, the summer carnival. The Falcons, from RAF Brize Norton, parachuted perfectly on to the white landing strips during Saturday afternoon.

And former Olympic swimmer Ms Davies dropped in on the event with her family, despite being unable to confirm a celebrity booking beforehand.

Ray said: "It was great to see her, after all. She spent about two hours with us, just going round the arena and watching the events." The entertainment included the Solent Eagle motorbike display team, ATC Marching Band, Cirencester Phoenix Majorettes, Henry Box Steel Band, West Witney Junior Morris Dancers and a kickboxing display.

On Saturday evening, a 60s disco in a marquee helped raise money for the Millennium Disney Fund to send children to Disney World, Paris.

Money from the main event will go towards the ATC's own funds and to Action Against Breast Cancer.

Last year, there were complaints about muddy tracks left at the recreation ground following the gala, so this year extra care was taken.

Story date: Wednesday 28 April

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