A flypast of red, white and blue was carried out by the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team to mark 75 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
The Red Arrows performed the aerial tribute over central London shortly after 1000 this morning.
Nine of the team’s distinctive fast-jets trailed their signature colours over the capital for the VE Day anniversary.
The formation was led by Red 1 – Squadron Leader Martin Pert.
He said: “Today we commemorate the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe, a day that signifies the end of one of the darkest periods in world history.
“The RAF is proud of its history and tradition – a legacy that has been forged through the actions of our forebears, who valiantly defended our nation, our lives and our freedom during the Second World War.
“As part of that, we remember those lost and say thank you to the Greatest Generation for their resilience and determination, aiming to honour and continue the legacy of all those who have gone before us.”
Heading east-to-west, the Red Arrows flew over central London in fine weather before passing the Runnymede Air Forces Memorial to commemorate VE75.
The memorial commemorates more than 20,000 Commonwealth servicemen and women of the flying services who died during the Second World War and have no known grave.
Sqn Ldr Pert said: “It’s always a privilege to fly over the capital city and an absolute honour to be the national flag carrier – with the red, white and blue colours helping to commemorate such a significant day.”
In addition to the Red Arrows over London, RAF Typhoon jets appeared in the skies above Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh this morning as part of VE Day 75 activities.
For more information on the Red Arrows, follow @rafredarrows on Twitter, like the team’s Facebook page at RAF Red Arrows, view pictures on Instagram @rafredarrows or visit www.raf.mod.uk/reds
