Hundreds came out at the weekend to mark the hundredth anniversary of the RAF.

Onlookers enjoyed a parade by 56 Squadron through the village of North Weald, culminating in wreath laying at the Memorial at North Weald Museum, ceremonial inspection of 56 Squadron from Chairman of Epping Forest District Council, Councillor Richard Bassett and Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Rosemary Padfield, picnics, music and a special fly-past from a Battle of Britain Memorial flight Hurricane.

The Squadron is one of the RAF's oldest and most distinguished.

It has a special connection to the area, having flown from North Weald airfield from 1927 to 1941.

Cllr Bassett said: “It was my privilege and honour to welcome so many residents, and the men and women of 56 Squadron on such a special occasion.

"It was with enormous pride that councillors took the historic vote to confer of the Freedom of Epping Forest District on 56 Squadron, as a symbol of our wider respect, friendship and affection for all those who have served and protected us over so many years.

“Thank you to our residents for coming and showing your continuing support for our magnificent Armed Forces. It’s been a wonderful day and I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.”