OVER the past few months the British troops have been in all our thoughts so this year's Military Tattoo, which is being held at the Manchester Evening News Arena on Saturday June 28, has a special sense of pride and patriotism.

This charitable event - raising money for the Manchester Youth Fieldgun Association and the Army Benevolent Fund - once again promises to be a spectacular display of skill and teamwork. This year's Tattoo is proud to feature a host of new display teams, including The Royal Artillery Motorcycle Display Team.

Musical accompaniment is of the highest calibre, with The Fusiliers Association Band (Lancashire) and their corps of drums, the pipes and drums of the Scots Guards Association (Manchester) and the Greater Manchester Police Band, while the spectacular finale will feature a parade by the standards of the ex-service associations. Military Tattoo organiser Frank Willcock said: "We are building on the success of the first Tattoo and the response from display teams has been phenomenal.

"The enthusiasm of all those involved means this year's show looks set to be even better, with a real family atmosphere.

Tickets for the 2003 Military Tattoo are £12.50 adults, £10 concessions and £8.50 children. Call 0870 190 8000 or book on line at www.men-arena.com