SPECTACULAR parachute jumps and explosive fireworks displays helped RAF Brize Norton mark the Air Force’s centenary year in style.

Station personnel and their friends and families were invited to Brizefest, a two-day event hosted at the air base to celebrate its commitment to the RAF.

The annual festival’s tenth year coincided with the Air Force’s 100th anniversary, meaning organisers threw their biggest party yet.

A ‘Proms in the park’ evening kicked off proceedings on Friday, August 31, with acts including the Brize Norton Military Wives Choir and the RAF Central Band.

Next day’s Families’ Day offered a packed schedule, including an RAF Firefighters car rescue demonstration, a show from the RAF police dog display team and an RAF Falcons parachute display.

Visitors saw flypasts and static displays from aircraft alongside an extensive car display consisting of classic and modern cars.

Sections from around RAF Brize Norton provided stalls for the event along with charities and other organisations offering games, competitions, and other activities.

Many acts performed during the afternoon, with tribute band One Night of Queen headlining the event before a firework display.

Squadron Leader Christine Matthews, the officer in charge of Brizefest said: “Brizefest and Families’ Day is all about recognising the amazing work of everyone at RAF Brize Norton, and saying a big 'thank you' to them and their supporting families and friends.

“I hope that everyone at Brizefest this year felt proud of their contribution and achievements, and most importantly had fun.

“It was a real pleasure and an honour to work with the team that made Brizefest possible; they are truly awesome and I cannot thank them enough.”