THOUSANDS of people descended on Rouken Glen Park to celebrate Armed Forces Day 2016.

Around 7,000 people of all ages flocked to the popular Giffnock park on Saturday, as the weather mercifully remained sunny and bright.

The event got under way with a welcome from East Renfrewshire Council Provost Alastair Carmichael, followed by the raising of the Armed Forces Day flag at the park’s pavilio

After the flag raising, more than 150 veterans, reservists, cadets and serving soldiers together with pipe and military bands marched to the events area of Rouken Glen.

This included the Biker Veterans, now a regular staple at the yearly event, and the Highland and Lowland Regimental Band.

The crowds were kept entertained throughout the day by restored military vehicles on display, assault courses, Barrhead Burgh Brass Band, Gillian Anderson dance school display team from Barrhead, military costumes, birds of prey and even a farmer's market.

The swinging sounds of the 40s and 50s could be heard thanks to the popular Swing Sensation band and there was a performance from the Scotland Military Wives Choir.

There was also a historical re-enactment and a the model boat club of East Renfrewshire had their models on display at the park pond.

Provost Carmichael said it had been a superb day: “I was absolutely delighted to be back at Armed Forces Day. It was great to see people come out in such numbers to join in the event and I’m sure everyone had a wonderful time whilst showing support towards our armed forces.”

Armed Forces Day is a national celebration designed to give people the opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the armed forces community, from serving troops to service families and from veterans to cadets.