South Antrim MP Danny Kinahan has recalled the role of Northern Ireland in the Battle of Britain, often considered a turning point in the Second World War, which raged from July through to the end of October 75 years ago.
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Air Training Corps cadets take part in Commemorations of the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain at St Mary’s Church in Timaru on Sunday. The Duke of Cambridge waved to photographers as he sat in the front seat of a Chipmunk training aircraft before taking it for a ride.
Sqn Ldr Martin Morris explained: “It is a very old aircraft and we couldn’t get one of the engines up to its full operating speed – so he got to fly in a Chipmunk instead”.
Prince Harry has piloted the plane and William replied “my brother’s been up in one and I’m dying to do it”.
The Prince was then expected to fly over Lincolnshire in a Dakota, but due to a technical issue this had to be swapped for a Chipmunk, piloted by Squadron Leader and commanding officer of the flight Dunc Mason.
They were joined by a Spitfire, flown by Flight Lieutenant Anthony Parkinson, and the two flew in formation.
When the Duke landed he was clearly impressed by the Spitfire and told the two pilots and 97-year-old Mr Wilkinson: “Seeing it flying alongside was fantastic – pretty special”.
The Duke of Cambridge, Honorary Air Commandant of RAF Coningsby, was at the station to observe the 100th Anniversary Parade of 29 (Reserve) Squadron.
The Chipmunk was joined in mid-air by a BBMF Spitfire.
During the visit William will meet pilots, ground crew and their families from 29 (Reserve) Squadron which not only trains Typhoon jet pilots but is one of a number of squadrons that helps defend the skies above the UK.
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The Duke is well known to Lincolnshire having trained at RAF Cranwell.
