Restricted airspace around Harwell Laboratory has shot down plans for a special Red Arrows flypast for seven-year-old Hendred schoolboy.

The world-famous aerobatic team had agreed to stage the end-of-term treat for William Scrope - after two classmates 'fixed it' for him by writing to the Arrows telling them how much he admired the group.

The formation fly-by over St Amand's Catholic primary school was planned for July 17, the last day of term, with the whole school planning to enjoy the spectacle during a picnic in the grounds.

But when the Arrows checked their maps, they discovered that East Hendred lies less than two miles from the atomic energy research lab - just 15 seconds flying time for their Hawk jets and well inside the Harwell exclusion zone for low-level flying.

The Arrows, who would have flashed across the school at less than half the minimum height of 2,500 feet aircraft are allowed to fly at, had no choice but to call off the treat.

Arrows' press officer Tony Cunnane said they would be sending William some signed posters to make up for the disappointment.

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