AN ICY cold dunk tank proved to be the highlight of the 21 Signal Regiment’s annual family day.

The 21 Signal Regiment, based in Colerne since 1992 providing Communications Information Systems support, invited military families and local residents to spend the day with them for the fun-filled family event.

Officer Commanding of 204 squadron, Major Duncan Chamberlain, was the first to be ‘dunked’ as contestants paid a small fee before throwing tennis balls into a bucket to dunk their victim.

Major Chamberlain was followed by various senior and non-commissioning officers.

Captain Tommy Woodall, who was in charge of setting up and running the event, said: “The aim of the annual event is to bring the community together; military and civilian in a relaxed environment.

“The day was extremely well supported we certainly were blessed with the weather, I think we have the Padre to thank for that.”

As well as the dunk tank, the family day saw falconry displays, a tug of war competition between squadrons, donkey rides, a classic car display and a cultural dance by three of the young children of some of the Nepalese soldiers based in the regiment.

For the foodies the 21 Signal Regiment Wives Group baked a selection of cakes and the long queue at their stall was only reviled by the equally large queue at the Nepalese wives stall who had cooked some of their traditional dishes.

The raffle that had some amazing prizes donated by the kindness of various local companies went down a storm and made some much needed funds for the Royal Signals Benevolent Fund and brought to a close this fun filled day.

The planning for next year’s event is now beginning in earnest with the aim of making it even bigger and better.