Spitfire to fly at Littlehampton’s Armed Forces Day

THE Spitfire was an iconic fighter plane during the second world war and one that arguably became a symbol for British resilience against the Nazi war machine.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Jun 2013, 08:00 BST
The iconic Spitfire will be flying over Littlehampton during the town's Armed Forces Day celebration later this monthThe iconic Spitfire will be flying over Littlehampton during the town's Armed Forces Day celebration later this month
The iconic Spitfire will be flying over Littlehampton during the town's Armed Forces Day celebration later this month

It defended the skies above the UK during the Battle of Britain and supported the courageous troops at the D-Day landings, more than 69 years ago.

But on Saturday, June 29, it will be making its triumphant return to the sky above Littlehampton as part of a death-defying aerial display which will form the main attraction of Littlehampton’s armed forces day spectacular.

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The free event is once 
again organised by Littlehampton Town Council and Harbour Park and will take place on The Green, between 10.30am-5pm.

And the Gazette can exclusively reveal the stunning Spitfire display will take place at 3pm, with wing commander Peter Hackett, a serving RAF pilot and test pilot for Typhoon and F35 Lightning, performing the show’s stunts.

Visitors can expect to see a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Hurricane fly past, at 12.30pm.

The town council’s chairman of community resources, Alan Gammon, said: “This event is about honouring those who serve and have served our country, as well as providing a relaxing day that residents and visitors can enjoy with their friends and families.”

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The day begins at 10.30am with a traditional drumhead service by members of the Littlehampton division of the Nautical Training Corps (NTC), TS Implacable, veterans, dignitaries and other guests.

Expect a range of action-packed attractions, from a demonstration by the Imps Motorcycle Display Team. There will also be the chance to ride inside the 15-tonnes FV432 armoured personnel carrier. Trips last ten minutes and are £2 per person.

Others attractions certain to wow the crowds include a display by operators of another military vehicle, the Daimler Ferret.

The event is also expected to attract more than 50 Royal British Legion (RBL) Riders, as well as a range of other exhibits and demonstrations. This year’s armed forces day is in aid of the RBL Riders’ poppy appeal.

Veterans are welcome to take part in the day. For details call 01903 732063.

For a full programme see here.

Related topics:SpitfireLittlehampton Town Council