The Birmingham International Tattoo is, for me, a highlight of the cold days of early February and this year's event was no exception. As always , we were treated to a great variety of music from several bands,with the the lead being taken by the ever popular band of the Royal Marines, along with beaufiful singing from Tim Pitman, a floor full of young disco dancers, the competitive assembling of field guns and our fast moving canine friends in their flyball display. 

In keeping with the international flavour of the Tattoo, we welcomed the band of the Hungarian Defence Force and for some, the high point of the evening, in the band of the French Foreign Legion. They certainly introduced us to some new musical flavours ( this was the first time that I had experienced a military band rapping). The finale was a powerful and moving experience, with all the participants on the floor together, making their various contributions. 

As before, my wife (who is a wheelchair user) and I had excellent seats, with a clear view of all that was happening. It was a thoroughly inspiring and enjoyable evening and we look forward to returning in 2026. Thanks as always to Ian for organising our visit and here's to continued success for an event which  brings out the crowds and raises funds for charities connected to our armed services in the process.