02/04/2008 07:49:00
The RAF celebrated its 90th birthday in memorable fashion yesterday with a spectacular flight display by the Red Arrows over Central London.
Crowds gathered along the Millennium Bridge as the world famous jets paraded across the skies, leaving behind them bright trails of red, white and blue.
The fly-past began at London City Airport, then proceeded to fly over the O2 Arena, Canary Wharf, Tower Bridge, Tate Modern and ultimately finished at the London Eye.
The Times states that Prime Minister Gordon Brown - who was speaking to reporters outside Downing Street at the time - was drowned out by the jets. He commented: "That is, by the way, the Red Arrows.
"This is to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the RAF and we are also celebrating today the 100th anniversary of the Territorial Army. We congratulate both the RAF and the TA on their huge achievements for the country."
The RAF's celebrations were rounded off by a banquet at the RAF Museum, attended by the Duke of Edinburgh, in north London.
In tribute to the TA's centenary, cannons were fired in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Belfast at 11.30am.
Like Gordon Brown, the Queen also praised the TA for its bravery throughout its hundred years. According to the BBC, she said: "The 100th anniversary of the Territorial Army is reason for great celebration and pride...
"I wish to express my gratitude to every member of the Territorial Army, serving and retired, for your remarkable record of service to the nation."