A BATTLE of Britain flypast is set to take to the skies of south Essex to mark the 75th anniversary of the start of the Second World War.

The Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster will soar over Barleylands, in Billericay, on June 21 and 22 as part of a huge event to support soldiers and their families.

The EssexMilitary Support Association has teamed up with the Royal Air Force events team to organise this year’s Armed Forces Day.

Last year, more than 15,000 people enjoyed military dog displays, musical performances and parachute displays in Rayleigh to mark Armed Forces Day.

This year’s two-day event will be the famous Lancaster’s only visit to south Essex of 2014 before it undergoes a major refurbishment next year.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will also include the Spitfire and Hurricane.

Dan Rodgers, chairman of the Essex Military Support Association, said: “The opportunity to have one of the Royal Air Force’s most iconic aircraft appearing at the event is absolutely fantastic.

We were fortunate enough to have the Spitfire joining us last year, but for it to be joined this year in formation with the Hurricane and Lancaster is superb.”

To make sure as many people as possible can attend the event, the association is putting on a free shuttle service to transport people from Basildon town centre to Barleylands.

Tickets, which cost £10 per adult and £3.50 for under-16s, are on sale now.

Tots under five can enter for free, and serving military personnel and veterans should contact organisers for special ticketing arrangements.

For more, visit www.essex militarysupport.com