MORE than 200 Colchester-based paratroopers parachuted on to the same fields used 70 years ago by soldiers taking part in a Second World War airborne operation.

More than 500 British, Dutch, US, French, Polish, German and Italian soldiers parachuted on to Ginkel Heath, near Arnhem, on Saturday, to mark the anniversary of Operation Market Garden.

A 40,000-strong crowd, including more than 50 veterans, watched them.

In September 1944, British and American airborne troops landed behind German lines to capture river crossings to allow tanks to cross the River Rhine into Germany.

Strong resistance prevented armoured forces linking up with the 1st Airborne Division at the final bridge at Arnhem.

Expecting to be relieved within 48 hours of landing, the paratroopers held out through nine days of brutal street fighting before withdrawing across the river.

More than 1,500 British soldiers were killed at Arnhem and nearly 6,500 were captured, while five Victoria Crosses were awarded.

The commemorative jump involved troops from every airborne unit within Colchester Garrison-based 16 Air Assault Brigade, jumping side by side with paratroopers from other nations, who all have links to the battle.

A Dakota from the RAF’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and a number of C-130 Hercules aircraft were used to drop the troops.

Brigadier NickBorton, the commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade, said: “The 70th anniversary of Arnhem represents another opportunity to record the humbling exploits of airborne forces in the Second World War.

“The warmth of the local population in welcoming back veterans and serving airborne personnel year-on-year has never wavered.”

Private Steven Jones, 27, from Anglesey, North Wales, part of B Company, 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment, said “I was excited before I jumped, it was awesome.”

Before the descent, a service was held at the Airborne Memorial at Ginkel Heath.

The crowds stood in silence as the Last Post was played, echoing across the heathland, before wreaths were laid by serving soldiers and veterans.

For more pictures, see Monday's Gazette