Act of Remembrance in Carrick for '˜brave airmen and women'

The event took place on what was the 70th anniversary of the branch, which covers the Whitehead to Glengormley area.

Wing Commander Noel Williams, branch vice chairman and Wings Appeal organiser, said: “The RAFA was formed in 1943, only three years after the Battle of Britain and the branch itself was formed in 1946, 70 years ago. Since then it has gone from strength to strength although there has been a decrease in numbers, as alas, many of the second world war era membership pass away.

“We still outshine many other branches in the UK with our busy social programme and regular monthly meetings. If any former servicemen would like to join us, we meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 8pm in Carrickfergus Golf Club.

“Sunday’s event was to remember ‘the few’, those airmen and airwomen who had their finest hour between July and October 1940, when we kept our flying machines serviceable in order that our young pilots could defend our shores in the air and prevent the land invasion planned by Hitler.”

The service was attended by Lord Lieutenant for County Antrim, Joan Christie. “It is always a pleasure to support the RAF Association, particularly on occasions such as this to represent Her Majesty and to lay a wreath in memory of our brave airmen,” she said.