THE DUNDEE Military Show 2005, attracting 10,000-plus visitors, staged something of a coup yesterday as it played host to the country’s top reservist, Major General The Duke of Westminster.

The duke, one of the richest men in Britain, was at the annual event in Camperdown Park, alongside the city’s Lord Provost John Letford, to declare the show officially open.

Organisers were delighted with the turn out— an estimated 2000 up on last year—as visitors got the chance to see a range of armed forces equipment and personnel in action.

Both adults and children were able to sample specialised weaponry and climb into a tank to see how the vehicle is operated.

Central attraction was the main arena, where a programme of special events lit up the dreary sky.

The Blue Arrows motorcycle display team enthralled spectators with their daring tricks, including a multi-bike jump through an inferno.

The Golden Lions free fall parachute display team stole the show. It was initially feared they would be hit by low cloud cover, but four parachutists delighted the crowd by diving into the arena from some 2200 ft, one of them attracting extra applause in recognition of the Saltire on his back.

Other crowd pleasers included a mock infantry battle, a display from the Royal Air Force Police Northern Area dog display team, a light gun firing by 19 Regiment, Royal Artillery and pipes and drums performances from the 51st Highland Regiment with the 51 Highland Brigade.

Two charities—the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) and Erskine (military) Hospital—were presented with a shared £1500 donation during the event.

Mr Letford said he was happy to see so many supporting the show, despite the murky conditions.

Organisers said the event has grown considerably since its first year, back in 2001. They were delighted to welcome the duke, who travelled from his home in England to replace Brigadier D C Kirk, the Brigade Commander of 51 (Scottish) Brigade.

The annual event is organised jointly by the TA, the Army, the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force.