Residents came out in force to raise thousands for a veterans' home on a sunny Saturday in Surbiton last weekend (June 29).

The Royal Star and Garter (RSG) veterans' home on Upper Brighton Road cares for ex-Servicemen and women and their partners living with disability and dementia.

Despite incredible heat, residents and supporters flocked to the fun-packed summer fete and helped raise over £2,000 for the charity.

Among those who enjoyed the day was guest-of-honour Kingston Mayor Margaret Thompson, the Home’s residents and their relatives and the local community, while Kingston Sea Cadets and an army of volunteers (pictured) helped to support the event.

Cllr Thompson said of the event: "The Home is wonderful and the fete looks lovely with lots of items made by the residents.

"I’m very proud to see our community here supporting our veterans on Armed Forces Day, as they support us."

Highlights of the sun-soaked day included singing from The Star and Garter Singers – a choir made up of residents and relatives, staff and volunteers, Second World War Jeeps, a tombola and a raffle.

The family-focussed fun saw kids enjoy garden games like Hook-a-Duck and skittles. The chocolate fountain was especially popular with youngsters, while Pimms proved a favourite among adults, a spokesperson for RSG said.

Live music throughout the afternoon from local band Baz & Dave, The Woodbury Bell Ringers, Kingston and Malden Scout and Guide Band, had visitors dancing.

Andy Cole, Chief Executive at RSG Homes, praised everyone who came out to show their support.

"It was great to open our doors to the Surbiton community and we had a fabulous day with our neighbours and friends. We were delighted to receive such warm feedback from both visitors and our residents, and are so grateful for their support.

"The money raised will make a real difference to the award-winning care we provide," he said.

Residents of the community who made the event so successful also expressed their satisfaction at the fete, which is held annually during summer at the Surbiton home.

"It is a great fete, there’s lots of different things here. We’ll be back again next year," Surbiton resident Jo, who attended with her daughter Sophie, said.