Release date: 7 August 2026
Thousands of people gathered at Oaklands Park on Sunday 2 August for Chichester’s Emergency Services, Armed Forces and Community Day.
The free, family-friendly event welcomed visitors of all ages, offering a unique opportunity to learn more about the work of the emergency services and armed forces, while enjoying a packed programme of live demonstrations, performances and activities.
The day began with a marching band parade and an opening address from the town crier, setting the tone for a vibrant celebration of community spirit and public service.
Building on the success of last year's event, visitors were treated to a range of exciting demonstrations from emergency service and military personnel. These included a road traffic collision rescue, chip pan fire, house fire, search and rescue dog display, hose drill and military drill.
Crowds gathered throughout the day to watch the action unfold, including the ever-popular appearance of the mischievous "Gangsta Granny", who caused plenty of entertaining chaos during the demonstrations.
One of the standout attractions was a helicopter landing by the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance. Visitors also enjoyed exploring a wide range of emergency service vehicles, both modern and historic, with many opportunities to climb aboard and speak directly with crews about their roles and responsibilities.
Alongside the demonstrations, attendees enjoyed magic shows, live performances, fairground rides and stalls hosted by local charities, community organisations and small businesses.
Chichester Fire Station Manager Anton Mezzone, who organised the day, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people come together to support this year's Emergency Services, Armed Forces and Community Day.
“The event is a great opportunity for us to engage with our local communities, showcase the vital work carried out by our emergency services and armed forces, and provide important safety messages in a fun and accessible way.
“With the hot, dry weather we've experienced this summer, the risk of fire is still very high across West Sussex. Events like this give us an important opportunity to talk to residents about how they can help prevent fires by taking simple precautions when enjoying the outdoors.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended, as well as to the many organisations, volunteers and partners who helped make the day such a success."
Councillor Tracie Bangert, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue attended the event and said: “I had a wonderful time attending the event with my grandchildren.
“Events like these play a vital role in bringing communities together to showcase the incredible work of our emergency services and raising awareness of important safety messages that can help keep residents safe.
“I would like to thank Station Manager Anton Mezzone, and everyone involved in making the event such a success.”
The event was organised by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service in collaboration with South East Coast Ambulance Service, Sussex Police, HM Coastguard, Royal Air Force, British Army, Royal Navy, West Sussex County Council, Chichester District Council, Chichester City Council, and Chichester Business Improvement District, in support of the Fire Fighters Charity.
