The annual Beating Retreat event is returning to the Crix, Hatfield Peverel on June 28.

Beating Retreat is a military ceremony dating back to 16th century England and was first used to recall nearby patrolling units to their castle. In current times, most armed forces in the Commonwealth perform some ceremonial form of the retreat and it is often used as a proving test for new band members as well as a chance to practice difficult drill moves.

There will be displays of music and marching, with the majority of the displays being performed by children, and will include performances by The Essex Caledonian Pipe Band, Essex Army Cadet Force Drill and Corp of Drums, Cambridge Army Cadet Band, The Corps of Drums, King Edward Grammar School, Chelmsford and The Blue Falcons Gymnastics Display Team.

A licensed bar, a hog roast and ice creams will also be available on the day.

Tickets cost £10 for adults, £5 for children and senior citizens, and a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children costing £20. All proceeds going to the Army Benevolent Fund, the solders’ charity. Tickets will not be available in advance.

Gates open at 2pm with displays beginning at 3pm and concluding at around 6pm.

For more information please call Essex Army Cadets on 01245 462302.