TV presenter Ben Shephard got the chance to take to the skies over Scotland during a trip to RAF Leuchars.

Best known as a presenter on GMTV and the Xtra Factor, he visited the air base as a guest of 111 (Fighter) Squadron.

He flew in an Tornado F3, piloted by Flight Lieutenant Sam Cowan, and experienced the rigours of low-level and supersonic flight in the UK’s primary air defence fighter.

He said, “It was the most thrilling, exciting and terrifying experience of my life.

“I can’t believe these guys get to do this on a day-to-day basis.

“It’s nearly as scary as working with Simon Cowell!”

Shephard is also to be best man this weekend at Flt Lt Cowan’s wedding.