A CENTURY of the Royal Air Force has been honoured with a flypast at the site of a former World War II airfield.

A Tucano flew over The Yorkshire Air Museum, on the site of former RAF Elvington, as part of the celebrations.

Historic aircraft including a World War I biplane and a Hawker Hunter jet fighter were also on display at the event.

People dressed in authentic flying kit from different eras of the Royal Air Force’s history helped showcase equipment dating back from World War through to the present day.

And a themed birthday cake was also commissioned to toast the force’s first century of service and dedication to defending the nation.

A World War I AVRO 504 bi-plane, Hawker Hunter T7 Trainer, Handley Page Victor XL231 “Lusty Lindy”, famed for her Falklands and Gulf War roles and a PANAVIA Tornado GR4 prototype of this current frontline aircraft were all on show at the launch.

The museum will host a Royal Air Force activity trail for families as part of the celebrations.

Deputy museum director Barbara George said: “We are very excited about our RAF themed Family Activity Trail which provides a great opportunity for families to learn together about the history of the Royal Air Force and the aircraft it has operated over 10 decades, many of which can of course be seen here at the Yorkshire Air Museum.

“We are sure it will be well received by visitors and will be available all through the season.”