CROWDS of well wishers have gathered today to cheer on RAF squadrons marching their way through Witney this morning.

The Freedom of Witney march left Woodford Way just before 10.30am to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain and included personnel from RAF Brize Norton carrying ceremonial weapons.

People lined the streets cheering and clapping as the parade went through the town with a C130 Hercules flypast to follow.

It marks 75 years on from the battle between Spitfire and Hurricane pilots and the Luftwaffe.

Warrant Officer Tony Dunn, station warrant officer, said: "It was excellent. RAF Brize Norton received Freedom of Witney In 1977. The newest Squadron 4624 received the Freedom of Witney 12 months ago. 

"The two flights we had were quite significant: the first number 70 squadron that fly A400m which is the newest aircraft, which is why I picked them. Then the 4624 reserve squadron also, so it was an example of the whole force.

"RAF Brize Norton has in excess of 6,500 personnel, not all are full time. So that why the parade showed the whole force.

"The timing is quite important, I had to start off at exactly 10.20am because I know it takes eight minutes to march up the High Street, two minutes to get in line and do the general salute.

"The plan was to have the C130 fly past at the end of the national anthem, which I think we achieved. The hairs were standing up on the back of my neck as it flew over and all the applause after makes it all worth while."