A PILOT from York is to star in a one-man airshow to commemorate the centenary of the First World War.

Flight Lieutenant Dave Kirby, from Poppleton, is based at RAF Linton-on-Ouse and has been granted Public Display Authority for a solo aerobatic routine in one of the base's Tucano jets.

Flight Lieutenant Kirby will perform more than 60 displays at 40 different venues in the UK and overseas this summer, with commentary provided by his colleagueFlight Lieutenant Jon Trueman.

To commemorate the centenary of the First World War, the 2014 display Tucano has been given special livery featuring a ‘cloud’ of poppies around the nose and the words ‘Lest we Forget’, which also appear on the underside of the aircraft.

RAF Linton-on-Ouse Station Commander, Group Captain David Cooper, said: “I’m delighted that the Tucano Display team has received Public Display Authority, it is a reflection of the hard work and professionalism they’ve shown in developing this season’s display.

"The Team will now represent the Royal Air Force, No 1 Flying Training School and 72(R) Squadron at events nationwide, showing just why the world’s oldest military flying training school retains its reputation for excellence in flying standards and the delivery of world-class training to the RAF’s next generation of fast-jet pilots.”

The team will raise money for the Royal British Legion, the Royal Air Forces Association, and the John Egging Trust, who help disadvantaged young people achieve their potential, this year.

Bob Gamble, the Royal British Legion’s assistant director for membership and armed forces engagement, said: "We are delighted that the Tucano Display Team has chosen the Royal British Legion as their beneficiary charity in this poignant year as we commemorate 100 years since the First World War.

"The unique poppy design will be seen by thousands of spectators across the country and will serve as a reminder to all that we should never forget the sacrifices our Armed Forces made, and continue to make, for our freedom."