Spitfire joins in Battle of Britain flypast over Norwich

A special ceremony was held to commemorate the heroes of the Battle of Britain, with Armed Forces personnel and leaders from across the county in attendance.

The event began with a flypast from the spitfire flown by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight which operates from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire. 

The last remaining Battle of Britain spitfire over Norfolk (Image: Norfolk County Council)

Norfolk County Council chairman Barry Stone: “This event is a tribute to those who defended our skies during the Battle of Britain. It is a reminder of the sacrifices made, with many lives lost, and a steadfast commitment to ensuring that those who fought, shall forever remain in our memory”.

“Their legacy teaches us the true meaning of sacrifice and the importance of defending the values we hold dear.”

Photographer Edward Scarff managed to capture a picture of the flypast - having only heard about the event at the last minute. 

Edward Scarff captured a picture at the last minute (Image: Edward Scarff)

"We were on the multi-storey car park next to County Hall," he said. 

"It was right in the front line for the flypast and it paid off. I only found out about it two hours before it took place. 

"It is lovely to see a Spitfire still flying."

As well as the flypast, the event featured a parade by Cadets from Norfolk and Suffolk and the Norwich City Concert band. 

Norfolk County Council chairman Barry Stone hosted the event (Image: Norfolk County Council)

There were readings from Mr Stone, Group Captain Stewart Blackburn, Deputy Lieutenant and Air Commodore Kevin Pellatt, Armed Forces Commissioner for Norfolk, also took place, while prayers were led by The Rev Tracy Jessop.

Wreaths were laid by representatives from the Spirit of Coltishall Association, RAF, Royal British Legion, Fire Service and Norfolk Constabulary, alongside the chairman of Norfolk County Council and Deputy Lieutenant of Norfolk.