City honours RAF squadron heroes

The celebration included a flypast by Tornado jets

A Scottish-based squadron has made history by becoming the first to be given the freedom of a city.

Civic leaders in Stirling have honoured personnel from 43 Fighter Squadron, based at RAF Leuchars in Fife.

The squadron, known as the Fighting Cocks, was formed at Falleninch Field near Stirling Castle in 1916.

Air force top brass and Armed Forces Minister Adam Ingram were at a ceremony on Saturday which included a parade and a flypast by Tornado jets.

This honour speaks volumes of the high regard our community has for the squadron's professionalism Colin O'Brien Stirling Provost

Organisers, the Fathers of the Royal City of Stirling, also arranged a field gun salute in honour of the squadron, which played a major role in both world wars and in subsequent conflicts in places including the Balkans and Iraq.

Stirling Provost Colin O'Brien said: "The squadron has a long and proud association with our area, stretching over almost 90 years.

"This honour speaks volumes of the high regard our community has for the squadron's conduct, professionalism and dedication."

Thousands of people lined the streets to see the city bestow its top honour for the first time.