More than 8,000 visitors headed to Port Solent on 5 September for its 999 Family Fun Day, bringing families together with emergency services from across Hampshire for a day of hands-on activities and discovery.
The free event offered a rare opportunity to see the emergency services up close, with children climbing aboard vehicles, exploring specialist equipment and meeting the people who help keep communities across the region safe. Hampshire Search and Rescue, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, the Coastguard and South Central Ambulance Service were among those joining the day, alongside the RNLI, MOD Police and RAYNET. Classic and modern emergency vehicles were on display, with plenty for families to explore. Children could look inside selected vehicles, discover the equipment used by different teams and ask emergency service crews their questions about life on the job.
Lisa Fowler, Events & Marketing Manager at Port Solent, said: “It was fantastic to see so many families out enjoying the September sunshine at 999 Day. The children clearly love having the chance to see the emergency vehicles up close, and it’s a great opportunity to learn more about everyday heroes. With National Cinema Day taking place on the same day, Port Solent was buzzing with lots of very happy visitors!”
The day also raised over £1,600 for Hampshire Search and Rescue, helping to support the charity’s work across the county. The event gave the attending organisations a chance to share more about what they do with the local community, while recognising the people who dedicate their time to keeping others safe.
999 Family Fun Day rounded off a busy summer of free family events at Port Solent, which has also included the Summer Festival, weekly Kids Clubs and the Pride of Portsmouth trail.
