BOMBERS from Britain's aviation past were reunited at Southend Airport in this stunning picture.

The Lancaster bombers have been seen over the skies of Southend in recent days and are due to take part in this weekend's Clacton Airshow.

They flanked the Vulcan XL426 aircraft, which is stationed permanently in Southend.

The Lancaster on the left, nicknamed Vera, flew in from Canada for the airshow, while the one on the right, nicknamed Thumper, is part of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and is stationed at RAF Conningsby.

The Vulcan is not airworthy so was towed across the runway at Southend to join up with the Second World War planes for this unique photo opportunity.

Joining the planes for the picture were a selection of Southend Airport pilots.

Roger Clements, the airport's managing director, said: "We were absolutely delighted that these wonderful aircraft that played such a huge and important role in British history decided to visit us here at London Southend Airport.

"It was a huge privilege to see them all side by side for the first, and probably the last, time.”