Thursday 19th April 2018
‘RED 10’ an Aston Martin Vanquish S (Red Arrows Special Edition) created a unique ‘Diamond Nine’ formation at London Biggin Hill Airport in honour of the RAF Red Arrows and to mark the arrival of the RAF100 Baton Relay to the airport. Ex-serviceman Humphrey Bradley – who retired from the army in 2013 – won the car after paying £20 for a Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund (RAFBF) raffle ticket.
“I am delighted to be able to take part in the RAF’s centenary celebrations. I was extremely fortunate to be the winner of this wonderful ‘Red Arrows’ Aston Martin Vanquish S last year in the RAF BF raffle, during which £1.5m was raised for the charity. Being an ex-serviceman I am keen to help recognise the national significance of the RAF as part of the UK’s military forces.”, said Mr. Bradley.
A convoy of Aston Martins left Biggin Hill and travelled to RAF landmarks in Kent, including former RAF West Malling (Kings Hill), the Kent Battle of Britain Museum (former RAF Hawkinge) and ended their day at the National Memorial to the few.
RAF Biggin Hill played a vital role during the Battle of Britain in 1940, as home to RAF Fighter Command squadrons. RAF Spitfire and Hurricanes from this airfield helped turn the tide of the Second World War.
On 1 April the Royal Air Force launched RAF100, a national campaign to mark its 100th year. The centenary itself will feature events, activities and other initiatives running nationwide from April to the end of September 2018. The RAF100 Baton Relay will take the campaign to communities in every region of the UK, carried by 20 RAF sports associations, serving RAF personnel, reservists, RAF Air Cadets and veterans.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, the Chief of the Air Staff, said:
“2018 marks a unique moment in the RAF’s long and proud history of service to our nation. This important moment allows us to re-affirm that the inspirational spirit of our men and women remains as strong today as it was a century ago, and has been throughout our rich history. We now look forward with confidence and pride to a future of aspiration, opportunity and success for the entire RAF family.”
