Helicopters go on final flypast

A flypast of Gazelle helicopters has taken place over Stirling Castle before the choppers are consigned to the army's history books.

The helicopters were operated by 3 Flight Army Air Corps, which is based at RAF Leuchars in Fife.

The unit is part of 7 Regiment Army Air Corps (Volunteers), which is to be disbanded on 31 March.

The Gazelles are not used in current operations and are being replaced by newer aircraft.

The flypast of the two helicopters, accompanied by an RAF Tornado F3, was held on Thursday to mark 3 Flight's connection to Scotland.

During its time at Leuchars, the unit has played a key role in supporting the armed services throughout Scotland and the English border regions in their training and preparation for operations.

Brigadier David Allfrey, commander of 51 (Scottish) Brigade said: "We are hugely sad that, as a result of decisions taken some time ago, Gazelle helicopter flying hours have been progressively reduced and that this has led to the disbandment of 7 Regiment AAC (V), including the TA flight based at RAF Leuchars - 3 Flight AAC.

"We are indebted to their aircrew, ground crew and support staff, all of whom have shown absolute professionalism and have worked to the highest standards over many years.

"I have been privileged to have flown with 3 Flight on many occasions through a range of Scottish weather and terrain.

"I have great respect for them and with their parting we lose an important, but unfortunately aging, capability."