THE old standard of 32 (The Royal) Squadron was laid-up during a special service at All Saints Church, Netheravon last weekend.

The RAF squadron, which boasts the most kills during the Battle of Britain, celebrated its centenary last month having been formed in Netheravon.

When first formed during the First World War it flew single-seater biplanes. These DH.2 planes were rapidly deployed to the front line in France with the Commanding Officer Major L W B Rees being awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry.

Since then the past 100 years of service have seen it operate the Hurricane and Spitfire in the Second World War and later the Vampire, Venom and Canberra light bomber.

More recently 32 Squadron has seen action in the Balkans, Sierra Leone, Libya, Mali and Somalia flying helicopters in a communications support role.

The also provide secure flights to senior military commanders and government ministers.