Britain's Queen visits only remaining operational Battle of Britain airfield

Nov 18, 2005, 14:55 GMT

Britain's Queen Elizabeth visited the only remaining operational Battle of Britain airfield for the last time on Thursday (17.11.05).

The visit to RAF Coltishall, in Norfolk, marked its 65th anniversary and the queen was seen smiling broadly as she toured the historic site.

The station, which is due to close at the end of 2006, has been used continuously since June 1940 for fighter operations.

After a fly-past by nine Jaguar fighter planes, the queen inspected the Guard of Honour before meeting service personnel and their families.

Station commander, Group Captain Graham Wright, said the monarch's visit was an honour.

He said: "Naturally she is interested in the military who serve her and serve the country.

"The station opened two weeks before the Battle of Britain, and for her to come in the 65th year of both celebrations is fantastic. It is a really good way to mark the occasion."

RAF Coltishall is home to No 41 Fighter Squadron and No 6 Squadron. No 41 Fighter Squadron will disband on March 3 next year, while No 6 Squadron will relocate to RAF Coningsby, in Lincolnshire.

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