A HAMPSHIRE naval base threw open its doors to welcome thousands of visitors at its annual open day.

More than 8,000 visitors descended on HMS Collingwood in Fareham.

The Blackwood’s Trophy Field Gun Competition was won by the 7th Battalion, Reme Crew of Waltham, Suffolk and saw crews from across the UK and as far afield as Gibraltar compete to dismantle, reassemble and fire a field gun in the shortest possible time.

The base was also opened up to the public allowing them to see first hand the Royal Navy’s training equipment and experience military-style training first hand along with helicopter rides and a funfair.

Marie Arnott, one of the organisers of the day, said: “It was a fantastic turnout and a very busy day.

“We aim to showcase naval life."