A SERIES of events will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force in the city this weekend.

The Royal Air Forces Association Concert Band will play a selection of well-loved favourites as part of a ‘Music in the Air’ evening at the Swan Theatre on Saturday (May 19) before more than 400 blue-uniformed troops will march through the city the following day.

Worcester and District branch chairman John Mason said: “It is fitting that Worcester has been chosen in recognition of the vital part contributed to the war effort in the environs of Worcestershire during the Second World War and after with RADAR, at such renowned sites as the famous Telecommunications Research Establishment (TRE) in Malvern, RAF Defford and RAF Pershore.

“These events are a vital part of the RAF Association’s presence in the Worcestershire area and the funds we raise throughout the year in 'The Wings Appeal' are used to continue our positive work in the community.”

The ‘Painting Worcester Light Blue’ march through the city will begin at 1pm on Sunday (May 20) starting from the Cornmarket to the Cathedral through Mealcheapen Street and High Street.

The march will be led by the West Mercia Air Training Corps (ATC) Band, followed by the standards of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) from the West Mercian Wing and marching contingents made up of serving RAF personnel from RAF Cosford, Air Cadet Units from the combined West Mercia Wing Air Training Corps and many ex-RAF and WRAF veterans.

This will be followed by an invitation-only service in Worcester cathedral which starts at 2pm.

Tickets for the concert at the Swan Theatre which begins at 7.30pm can be purchased from worcesterlive.co.uk or by calling 01905 611427.

Tickets cost £15 and £12 for concessions, including serving personnel and ex-servicemen and women.

Money raised will go to the RAF’s Wings Appeal which helps serving and former personnel and their families in times of need.