The Royal Air Force Centenary Event awarded to The City of Worcester

In one weekend in May the City of Worcester will be hosting two major events to celebrate the Centenary of the Royal Air Force, and organised by the Worcester and District Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association. John Mason the branch chairman said “It is fitting that Worcester has been chosen in recognition of the vital part contributed to the war effort in the environs of Worcestershire during the Second World War and after with RADAR, at such renowned sites as the famous TRE in Malvern, and with RAF Defford and RAF Pershore”.

On Saturday May 19th at the Swan Theatre: The Royal Air Forces Association Concert Band under the direction of Peter Skellon BEM the Musical Director and supported by Worcestershire County Council, will perform for one night only ‘Music in the Air’ an evening of the well loved favourites and more; in support of the ‘Wings Appeal’ and will commence at 7.30 pm. Tickets are available on-line from www.worcesterlive.co.uk or the ticket office at Huntingdon Hall in Worcester on 01905 611427, at £15.00 and £12.00 concessions to include serving personnel and ex servicemen and women.

On Sunday May 20th ‘Painting Worcester Light Blue’: there will be a big parade and over 400 uniformed troops will march through the city from the Corn Market to the Cathedral via Mealcheapen street and The High street with the salute taken at The Guildhall, this event is generously supported by Worcester City Council. The march will start at 1pm and the subsequent cathedral service will start at 2pm  (with the congregation seated by 1.25pm cathedral tickets by invitation only). 

The West Mercia ATC Band will lead the march followed by Standards of the Royal Air Forces Associations and marching contingents comprising serving RAF personnel from RAF Cosford, Air Cadet Units from the combined West Mercia Wing Air Training Corps and many ex- RAF and WRAF veterans will be taking part.

The Royal Air Forces Association with branches throughout the Commonwealth, offers friendship, help and support to the ‘RAF family’ this includes current and former serving RAF personnel, their spouses, widows, widowers and other dependants. From something as simple as a visit to chat; to financial support in a time of need, the Association is there to help. The majority of this support is delivered by local branch members, on a voluntary basis.

Worcester and District Branch Chairman John Mason said: “These events are a vital part of the RAF Association’s presence in the Worcestershire area and the funds we raise throughout the year in 'The Wings Appeal' are used to continue our positive work in the community.”

If you’re interested in finding out more or joining us, contact the Worcester and District Branch: rafa.worcester2018@gmail.com or local contact number 01905 830682