Vulcan bomber to fly at Royal International Air Tattoo

The Vulcan bomber was restored in 2008 following a £7m public campaign

A newly-restored Vulcan bomber is to fly at an air show in Gloucestershire.

Operators of the plane worked hard to have it ready in time for events such as the Royal International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford on 17 and 18 July.

The Cold War bomber was restored to flying condition in 2008 after a £7m fundraising campaign. It is owned by the Vulcan To The Sky Trust.

The aircraft took part in an air display earlier in the month at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire.

In order to display each year, the aircraft has to pass a series of rigorous tests.

Operators overcame both financial and technical challenges to ensure it could take to the skies.

In my mind, it is one of a handful of legendary aircraft, including the Spitfire and Concorde that has the ability to stir the emotions.

Tim Prince

"It's been touch-and-go as to whether the aircraft would be ready in time but I am absolutely thrilled it is now able to join us," said Air Tattoo chief executive Tim Prince.

"There are few aircraft flying today that can match its beauty and sheer thunderous power.

"In my mind, it is one of a handful of legendary aircraft, including the Spitfire and Concorde, that has the ability to stir the emotions."

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Vulcan enthusiast Graeme Miller from Berkshire speaking in February 2010

Vulcan XH558, which was built in 1960, enjoyed a 33-year career in the RAF, including service during the Falklands War.

Along with the Valiant and the Victor, the three aircraft comprised the Royal Air Force's V-bomber force, designed to protect the UK from nuclear threat from the 1950s to the 1980s.

The ambitious restoration of XH558 was supported by a £2.5 million grant from the Lottery Fund, a £500,000 donation from philanthropist Jack Hayward, commercial sponsors plus contributions from more than 20,000 members of the public.

The campaign also received significant fundraising support from the Air Tattoo throughout the restoration project.