Battle Of Britain Remembered - Leigh-on-Sea

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Leigh On Sea News: Battle Of Britain Remembered – A SOUTH Essex MP has paid tribute to the wartime role of Southend Airport, during the Battle of Britain.

Battle Of Britain Remembered – A SOUTH Essex MP has paid tribute to the wartime role of Southend Airport, during the Battle of Britain.

A SOUTH Essex MP has paid tribute to the wartime role of Southend Airport, during the Battle of Britain.

Speaking in Parliament in a debate to mark the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, this September, Rayleigh and Wickford MP, Mark Francois, highlighted the history of the airport, as one of Fighter Command’s key airfields.

During the battle, the airport, known back in 1940 as RAF Rochford, was a “forward airfield” for the several squadrons of spitfires defending the approaches to London, which were based at RAF Hornchurch.

The iconic aircraft would often fly out to Rochford, very early in the morning, fight from there and then return to Hornchurch the same evening.

Speaking after the debate, about the vital role played by RAF Rochford in the defence of Britain, Mr Francois said: “As people jet off on holiday from Southend Airport, for their fortnight in the sun, I wonder how many people know that, eighty-five years ago, the same airfield was absolutely vital to Britain’s defence?

“As a South Essex MP, I’m determined to make people aware of the proud heritage of our local airport, in keeping us free.”

Picture: Mark Francois MP praising the role of Southend Airport (then RAF Rochford) during the Battle of Britain, in Parliamen.

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