Red Arrows display really hits the target

Up, up and away! The Red Arrows delighted crowds of spectators when they visited the Shropshire airbase where princes William and Harry are training as pilots.

The daredevil aerobatic display team wowed onlookers at RAF Shawbury with their trademark red, white and blue vapour trails, yesterday. The nine-strong team showcased their stunning moves, hurtling through autumnal Shropshire skies in their bright red aircraft.

The event was to thank the RAF Shawbury-based Central Flying School (Helicopters) Squirrel helicopters, which take members of the team to shows up and down the country.

Among those craning his neck to see the Red Arrows in action was new station commander Group Captain Bunny James, who has replaced Group Captain David Prowse, who left for Afghanistan at the weekend.

Group Captain James is no stranger to RAF Shawbury having completed many stints at the airbase in his military career.

RAF Shawbury spokesman Squadron Leader Neil Hope hailed the display as a treat for everyone at the base. He said: "As always their display was a fantastic success.

"It provided the climax of the annual local landowners' visit to experience at first hand the training provided for students of the three armed services." The annual landowners' visit is held as a thank you to those farmers and landowners who, over the past year, have provided essential training facilities for the tri-service Defence Helicopter Flying School and the Central Flying School's helicopter squadron based at RAF Shawbury.

Squadron Leader Hope said: "The facilities include fields, clearings in woods and other remote sites which are used to familiarise students with the difficulties of operating away from airfields.

"We greatly appreciate the valuable contribution made by our neighbours throughout Shropshire, and beyond, in supporting the vital training carried out from RAF Sha- wbury, especially those who allow us to use their land for field exercises and landings.

"Without these essential facilities our students would not be prepared for their next stage of training and, ultimately, for the demanding operational missions they will be required to fly both at home and overseas."