Spectacular flypast to launch start of Melton's Battle of Britain parade
A flypast of Second World War aircraft will launch this year’s Battle of Britain parade through the streets of Melton Mowbray next month.
This spectacular new feature will add even more to an inspiring event which is now Leicestershire’s only remaining memorial parade in honour of the brave crews who took to the skies in September 1940 to fight off the German Luftwaffe.
Organisers say the flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF), which is subject to weather and operational requirements, will mark the start of the procession, at 10am on Sunday September 20.
The BBMF display normally involves a Spitfire, a Hurricane or a Lancaster Bomber or a combination of two of them.
Taking part will be a contingent of RAF personnel from Melton’s Defence Animal Training Regiment, members of the RAF Association (RAFA), RAF veterans and Air Cadets from across Leicestershire.
And leading the parade, which will start from the Chapel Street Car Park, will be the Band of South and East Midlands Wing Air Cadets.
Toby Burton, the chairperson of Melton Mowbray RAF Association, said: “The Battle of Britain remains one of the most significant moments in our nation’s history.
"This parade is an opportunity for our community to come together to remember those who served with such courage and determination, while also recognising today’s serving personnel, veterans and the next generation represented by our Air Cadets.
“We are proud that Melton continues to host Leicestershire’s only Battle of Britain Parade, and we would love to see as many people as possible lining the streets and joining us for the service.
"Your presence helps ensure that the sacrifices made by ‘The Few’ are never forgotten.”
Organisers are encouraging residents, families and visitors to gather along the parade route and attend the commemorative service to show their support and help preserve an important tradition of remembrance.
From Chapel Street, the party will proceed through the town to the Egerton Lodge Memorial Gardens, where an outdoor service of remembrance and wreath-laying ceremony will be held.
The event expected to conclude by around midday, following the outdoor service.
Temporary rolling road closures will be in place along the parade route and motorists are advised to plan their journeys accordingly.