A GROUP of men who did their National Service together 50 years ago were meeting up again in Swindon today (Saturday) for a reunion.

It was taking place at the Rifleman public house and about 13 of the old soldiers were expected to travel from all parts of the country.

Organiser Cyril Smart said the men had done their National Service together between November 1950 and November 52 and had served with the 37th Heavy Anti-aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery.

Cyril said: " I arranged the first re-union in 1986 and it's kept going since then.

"Last year, one of our old drill sergeants, Charlie Redman, travelled down from Inverness to join us for a chat and a drink."

Cyril said the men were stationed in North Wales and among those attending Saturday's event will be six who shared the same billet.

Among the memories they will be recalling will be the time they were used as extras in the war film the Red Beret which starred Alan Ladd.

"He was a really nice man and always had time for a chat with us," said Cyril.

"Ironically we had to play the role of German soldiers, which was a bit of a laugh, but we all enjoyed ourselves and were involved with the film for a fortnight."