Shropshire Star

Gallery: Large Model Aircraft Rally at RAF Cosford

Hundreds of model aircraft took the skies as part of RAF Museum Cosford's annual miniature air show.

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Enthusiasts from around the world descended on the region for what has become one of the biggest dates in the museum's calendar.

People from as far a-field as Germany and Italy were among the thousands who attended the two-day event.

Crowds were entertained with pyrotechnic displays and mid-air dog fights, as well as the static line ups.

LAST ALAN EVANS COPYRIGHT EXPRESS & STAR 16/07/16 The Large Model Aircraft Rally at RAF Cosford. Boys with their toys.

There was also expert commentary telling people key facts about the aircraft in the air and a wide range of stalls.

This year's flying theme commemorated the 80th anniversary of the first flight of the Spitfire.

Ian Jones, a member of the the Large Model Association, said: "The event has gone very well.

"The clouds did threaten to ruin the day on Saturday, but the rain held off and there were only a few light showers.

"A lot of people came to see the model aircraft and there were also lots of people showing them.

"People came from Belgium, Spain and Germany as well as throughout the rest of the UK.

"It is well and truly an international show.

"We are very pleased with the turn out and glad it all went so well."

Aircraft at the show were all designed and built by members of the Large Model Association, who have dedicated years into making them a perfect replica of the real thing.

Mr Jones added: "We have some model aircraft here which are worth thousands of pounds. The most expensive is probably one worth £30,000."

Aircraft from the early days of aviation through to the modern jets of today featured in the displays, with models on show ranging in size from small-scale aircraft right through to larger model planes.

There were also more than 50 exhibitors to showcase some of the latest model kits and aviation accessories as well as a children's entertainment area, packed with bouncy castles and inflatable slides.

One exhibitor, Matt Eccles, trade stand manager at the Large Model Association, said some people spent years creating their model aircraft.

He said: "It is still a very popular hobby. We have more than 1,000 members across the UK.

"This is certainly our biggest show and it is very good.

"It's a great day out for the family and for enthusiasts from all over the country."

Sam Beavan, aged 18, headed to the event with his father Jim.

Sam, from Telford, said he loved watching the planes fly and race each other over the land at RAF Cosford.

He said: "I have just started getting into model aircraft because my dad is a fan. We love going to these shows so it is great there is one close to home."

For further information about the event, click here or call (01902) 376200.

LAST ALAN EVANS COPYRIGHT EXPRESS & STAR 16/07/16 The Large Model Aircraft Rally at RAF Cosford. Boys with their toys.