Model makers get sky high this weekend

SCALE models of iconic aircraft will be taking to the sky at the Large Model Air Show, when the two-day family event returns to the RAF Museum Midlands at Cosford on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 July.

The show will be packed with over seven hours of spectacular flying displays from hundreds of miniature models, accompanied by interactive experiences on the ground, keeping families, aviation fans, and modelling enthusiasts entertained.

Taking place on the airfield at RAF Cosford, on display will be biplanes through to modern day jets, all designed, built and flown by experienced model aircraft pilots. With acrobatic displays, synchronised flypasts and smoke effects, they look like the real thing.

There will be more flying than ever before with three flightlines for the first time. The line-up includes a mass flying formation of Spitfires, and an impressive collection of First World War aircraft taking to the skies, plus, an appearance from some of the largest model aircraft in the country, including the Constellation, Bristol Bulldog, Comet DH88, and the Vulcan. The 20ft Vulcan model will retire after more than 10 years appearing at the show, and its farewell flight will be an exciting recreation of the real Vulcan XH558’S last flight, flying in formation with two Red Arrow Hawks on its wingtips.

A flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster is an event highlight guaranteed to wow crowds both days, flying in at 2.14pm on Saturday and 1.58pm on Sunday, weather permitting.

The event is growing both in the air and on the ground with more than 50 traders, including a ‘bring, buy and swap’ shop, street food vendors, entertainment and other activities.

There will be plenty of opportunities for visitors to get behind the controls and fly some of the training model aircraft, with guidance from top pilots, or have a go at drone flying and learn the basics. This drop-in activity is suitable for children aged 8 or above. The youngest visitors will also have plenty of high-flying fun with trampolines and Airfix model making activities running throughout the day (charges apply).

Tickets for the event are available to purchase online, £15 adults and under 16s are free. Exclusively for this event, camping is available on the airfield at RAF Cosford, from £50 including show entry.

For more information and to purchase tickets to the Large Model Air Show visit www.rafmuseum.org/mid lands

The Large Model Show takes place at RAF Cosford July 2-3 (Bob Greaves)

Vulcan model to make its last flight at RAF Cosford before retiring (Bob Greaves)

More than 7 hours of flying is planned over the weekend (Bob Greaves)

Skilled model pilots will take to the air (Bob Greaves)