The event is one of the most popular events in the Fareham calendar

Eager families and visitors will get a behind-the-scenes look at a Royal Navy base this weekend.

HMS Collingwood will be taking place on Saturday (July 4), with gates opening at 9.30am. Thousands of people flocked to the Newgate Lane shore establishment in Fareham last year.

Visitors start to arrive at HMS Collingwood | Keith Woodland

placeholder image — Visitors start to arrive at HMS Collingwood | Keith Woodland

This year promises the return of the hotly-contested field gun competition. Teams have been training and competing hard ahead for a chance to win the prestigious “Brickwoods Trophy”. Scorching 35C weather didn’t stop the HMS Collingwood teams conducting their drills in front of an audience on June 24.

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Various family-fun attractions have been organised for visitors, who will be able to catch a glimpse into what life is like in the Royal Navy. Money will also be raised for various good causes such as The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC). A total of £15,000 was accumulated last year.

Interactive Zones for hands-on activities will be making a return as parts of the base will be opened for the public. Visitors will be able to see the training equipment and experience some of the military drills first-hand. This includes teaching people how to navigate a ship into harbour on the base’s warship bridge simulator.

There will also be a military village, fairground rides including dodgems, a petting zoo, inflatable attractions, and more. The event will close at 5pm, with free onsite parking available. All entertainment is free of charge after the entrance fee is paid. You can purchase tickets by visiting the HMS Collingwood website.