High security for Bastille Day in France

Fears of another assassination attempt did not appear to affect President Jacques Chirac as he led France's celebrations to mark Bastille Day. The traditional military parade along the Champs Elysees in Paris took place amid heightened security following last year's failed attack in which a neo-Nazi tried to shoot at Chirac. The would-be assassin was wrestled to the ground before he could open fire. This year, 1,000 extra police were on duty. They were also on the look-out for protests from groups who, it was thought, might use the occasion to make their mark. In a break from tradition, pride of place in the parade went to a German officer. General Holger Kammerhoff commanded a contingent of Eurocorps troops who were given the honour of leading the procession.