DIGNITARIES joined leading military figures to honour those who fought in the Battle of Britain.

Laurence Cawley

DIGNITARIES joined leading military figures to honour those who fought in the Battle of Britain.

A tribute march was held in Bury St Edmunds yesterday from the Abbey Gardens to Angel Hill, followed by a service at St Mary's Church.

The event was led by mayor of St Edmundsbury Bob Cockle and the commander of RAF Honington, Group Captain Russ La Forte.

Hundreds of people, young and old, gathered along the parade route and outside Angel Hill to pay their respects.

Among them were a number of veterans from the Second World War, displaying the medals they earned with pride.

The Battle of Britain was fought from July 10 until October 31, 1940 and RAF Honington - which was opened in 1937 as one of six operational airfields within No 3 Group Bomber Command - was repeatedly targeted by the Luftwaffe.

In the first surprise German attack on August 19, 1940, eight airmen were killed and others injured as they crossed the old parade ground on their way to the mess.

Later that day, the German's struck again, and the north-west wing of Barrack Block 76 received a direct hit killing several airmen.