Hornchurch Country Park marks Battle of Britain Day with RAF Lancaster Bomber flyover and fun day
Hornchurch marked Battle of Britain Day in style with a flypast by a Lancaster Bomber, history roadshow and family fun day.
The day – Saturday September 15 – was named “Pedalling into the Past” after the cycle track that now runs through Hornchurch Country Park, the former site of Hornchurch Airfield.
The flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flights Lancaster Bomber drew crowds from 3pm, while veterans signed books and took questions from the public.
Aviation historian Richard Smith, who was present with the RAF Hornchurch and Battle of Britain Roadshow mobile exhibition, said more than 100 books had been sold.
“It was really good,” he said. “There was lots of interest for the exhibition and lots of people asking questions.
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“It was a fitting tribute to the men and women at Hornchurch during the war. We are doing it to keep their memory alive.”
Other attractions at the cycling-themed history day included the chance to try out different bikes on the park’s 12-mile cycle track, a kids’ pedal-powered disco and live wartime-style music.
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Aviation artist Barry Weekley displayed prints of Lancasters, while kids tried out circus skills, climbing and archery.
And cyclists had the opportunity to get their bikes marked by the Havering Volunteer Police Cadets, to help identification in the event of theft.
PC Matt Ingram, the volunteer cadet coordinator, said: “The cadets worked very hard but really enjoyed themselves. The sun was shining, everyone was very friendly and it made for a great atmosphere. They are already looking forward to next year’s event.”
