A school's annual Grand Day saw some 500 students in the splendour of full ceremonial uniform.

They paraded last Friday after an inspection by guest of honour and reviewing officer Col Andy Thorne.

The Duke of York's Royal Military School's band and corps of drums also led Trooping the Colour after the inspection.

It is the only school in England and Wales to have the Royal privilege of holding colours, which was granted by King George IV in 1825, and marching the colours through the ranks.

This usually only happens in infantry regiments.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions the prize-giving followed by the parade at the Dover school was only attended by staff, governors and Year 13 parents.

Many of the pupils, aged 11 to 18, have family in the armed forces.

As a personal touch they wear the cap badge of their parents’ or family members' service, corps or regiment over their hearts.

Col Thorne has three children at the DOYRMS and is its chairman of governors.

He is also chairman of the Ministry of Defence’s European Local Children Safeguarding Board.

The school’s 150-acre countryside site was also the background for a display of vintage military transport, which included a Hawker Hurricane and Staghound T17E armoured car.

Principal Alex Foreman, said: “While the last year has been challenging, the resilience of our students has shone through.

"It has resulted in high achievements by our prize- winning students and our stunning whole school Grand Day, which celebrates our unique military heritage.

"The entire event is led by students who provided a magnificent display of our core values ,which are courage, integrity, respect, commitment, loyalty and self-discipline.”

Read more: All the latest news from Dover