The Birmingham International Tattoo is always a highlight of the month of February in my calendar and this year's was (as ever) a roaring success.  Featured service was the Royal Air Force, which is something close to my own heart, as both my late parents served in the Auxiliary Air Force and in my other role as a Church Minister, I had the privilege of being Padre to a squadron of the Air Training Corps for several years. 

During the evening , we were treated to a lovely variety of music by bands from home and abroad (this year, including the Polish Police Band). A personal highlight is always the pipes and drums (being a Northern Irishman of Scottish descent). Tim Pitman's inspiring vocals added as ever to the musical content and along with music and song , we were entertained by our canine friends in their flyball racing and by the services pitting their skills against each other in the field gun competition.  After seeing the arena filled by the enthusiastic young dancers of the United Kingdom Freestyle Display Team, we experienced the powerful and emotional Grand Finale. 

All in all, a splendid evening, which my wife (who is a wheelchair user) and I viewed from the close proximity of the accessible area. I was particularly pleased at the welcome given to the guests from Ukraine, who were treated to a prolonged and well-deserved standing ovation. Another very enjoyable and successful Tattoo and thanks as always to Ian for arranging our visit. Here's to 2027!