SPECTACULAR air displays from some of the region's historic wartime aircraft are among an exciting programme of nostalgic celebrations planned for Martlesham Heath.

SPECTACULAR air displays from some of the region's historic wartime aircraft are among an exciting programme of nostalgic celebrations planned for Martlesham Heath.

A whole host of events are being staged on the heath at the Control Tower Museum, off Parkers Place, Martlesham Heath, on Saturday, September 22, to mark the second anniversary of the opening of the museum.

A theme of the celebrations, which run from 10.30am until 4.30pm, is to commemorate the wartime status of Martlesham Heath as a RAF base.

Aviation enthusiasts will relish the prospect of a display from a P51 Mustang, an event partly sponsored by John Grose Ltd, from 11.30am. It served in Martlesham Heath from 1944 and succeeded the P47 Thunderbolt. It was utilised for its ability to fly over long ranges into German territories during World War Two.

At 1.30pm crowds will be treated to a fly-past from the 1930s training plane, the Boeing Stearman, which is followed by a display of aerobatics from the Russian YAK52 at 2pm.

Gordon Kinsey, president of the Martlesham Heath Aviation Society, will provide commentary of the events.

A group of 20 former servicemen of the United States Army Air Force, who were based in Martlesham Heath between 1943 and 1945, are flying in from America to attend the event.

A display of civilian vehicles, supplied by the Suffolk Vehicle Enthusiasts Club, and privately-owned military vehicles will continue to the nostalgic theme.

A popular display of radio controlled model aircraft and helicopters will be taking place throughout the day, with the Martlesham Brass Band making appearances between 1pm and 2pm and between 2.15pm and 3pm.

The event is being organised by members of the Martlesham Heath Aviation Society, with Bob Dunnett, Russell Bailey and Tarkey Barker overseeing operations.

Mr Dunnett, main co-ordinator of the celebrations, said: "Last year we attracted around 1,000 people and this year we are aiming for a few more.

"The show is going from strength to strength and is a bigger and better event this year."

WEB LINK

www.mhas.org.uk