There’s been a slight change to the timing for this Sunday’s (25 June) Lancaster bomber flypast as part of Isle of Wight Armed Forces Day.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) aircraft is expected to arrive a little earlier than originally planned, at 1.35pm.
Dore: Things have got a bit saucier
Councillor Ian Dore, Armed Forces Day committee chair, said he had spoken to the pilot earlier today.
“They are routing in via East Cowes and across to Ryde. Then, things have got a bit saucier!
“Instead of simply continuing on down the coast to their next engagement, they are hoping to treat us to not one, but two 360-degree orbits at the event location. Thank you RAF!
“So the aircraft can get as close as legally possible, there will be a cordon on the beach depending on the tide state. There are distance rules in place and if just one person is not within the safe zone, the aircraft must go out further.“That’s a compromise on the display, spoiling it for others. So please, let’s keep it safe so we can all enjoy this illustrious machine.”
Dore: It’s going to be so special for so many
Councillor Dore, who is also the council’s Armed Forces Champion, added,
“Ten years ago, and shortly before my father passed away, the Lancaster displayed over Cowes. He, like many had done National Service and witnessed the blitz as a child.
“As it gracefully swooped across the rooftops heading out to the Solent, Dore Senior punched the air with a ‘yes….’ There was a glint and a tear of pride in his eye. It was a marvellous moment for a father and son. It still makes me smile to this day.
“It’s a warm feeling knowing we have the bomber inbound and I know we have several former Lancaster pilots with us on the day. There are lots of youngsters excited about it too.
“It’s going to be so special for so many. Please get there early, please respect the safety provisions and please, enjoy the moment.”
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
