A Battle of Britain memorial parade was held by the Trowbridge branch of the Royal Air Forces Association at St James’ Parish Church on Sunday.

The association marched the short distance from St James’ Parish Hall to the church to mark the battle, the air campaign waged by the German Air Force against the UK during the summer and autumn of 1940.

Marchers were accompanied by members of the Royal British Legion, the White Ensign Association and chairman of the Wiltshire branch of the Normandy Veterans Association, Bob Conway.

Trowbridge Mayor Glyn Bridges and Deputy Mayor Roger Andrew, with fellow councillors, also attended the service, which was led by the rector, the Rev Rob Thomas.

Mike Sale, a retired wing commander and Trowbridge branch representative, said: “The service was a traditional one and we started off by marching from across the road to the church.

“The standard bearers from the different groups then stood either side of the entrance to welcome the veterans.

“It’s an important occasion to remember those who gave their lives in the Battle of Britain between July and October of 1940. The service went very well and we had hymns and a sermon from Rev Thomas.”

Mr Sale also organises the RAFA’s Wings Appeal in the area, which is an ongoing fundraising campaign that runs throughout the year to help raise funds to support serving and ex-RAF personnel and their families.

Fundraising for the Wings Appeal was initially centred on the Battle of Britain week in September, although fundraising has become an activity throughout the year.

Mr Sale added: “We raise money by having stands in supermarkets and collections. We usually get about £250 each time and we have done four so far this year.”

For more information about the association, visit www.rafa.org.uk