An Angus memorial to thousands of wartime and inter-war pilots will be unveiled by a royal visitor next month.
Montrose Air Station celebrates its centenary on July 26 with the grand reveal of a replica Spitfire, itself a regal reminder of Britain’s aviation heritage.
The Earl of Wessex will unveil a commemorative stone next to the replica, which will stand by the entrance to the UK’s oldest military air station.
Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre chairman Alan Doe said: “The unveiling by The Earl of Wessex will certainly highlight the significance of the base and the part Montrose Air Station played in the history of Montrose.”
Mr Doe said the replica Spitfire will commemorate the many thousands of Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and RAF personnel who were based at Montrose from 1913 and who made such a contribution to both world wars and to the history of aviation.
“We are honoured that these men and women are to be recognised by His Royal Highness and the many other distinguished guests at our July 26 event, including Georgiana Osborne, Lord Lieutenant of Angus,” he added.
“Spitfires were a common sight and sound at Montrose in the war years, when they provided fighter protection from enemy bombing raids.
“The replica Spitfire and the commemorative stone have been purchased thanks to an invaluable grant from Angus Council, with assistance from our Spitfire fundraising campaign, which was taken to heart by the local community, local businesses and supporters of Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre.”
The unveiling ceremony will be held during an invitation-only event at Montrose Air Station but members of the public will be able to welcome the Earl and watch the unveiling ceremony from the heritage centre’s perimeter.
Depending on the weather, a flying display by aircraft from the early days of aviation will be held in the skies above the town on the same day.
Mr Doe added: “Guests at the unveiling ceremony will also enjoy the premiere of a play specially written for the occasion and an on-ground demonstration by RAF Leuchars.
“And following the return to Montrose Air Station by members of its founder squadron earlier this year, we are hopeful II (AC) Squadron (now flying Tornado GR4s at RAF Marham in Norfolk) will make another fleeting visit this time by air.”
The centre is closed to the public for the day but admission is free on July 27 and 28 as part of the celebrations.
Visit www.rafmontrose.org.uk for more information.