The anniversary of the Battle of Britain was marked today by South Kesteven District Council with the raising of a commemorative flag over its civic offices at St Peter's Hill in Grantham.

Guests observed a minute's silence to remember the wartime sacrifices made during The Battle of Britain air campaign that took place from July to October 1940.

South Kesteven District Council Chairman Coun Breda Griffin said: "I am honoured to be taking part in this commemorative event because I feel that we owe so much to our brave pilots and aircrew who fought to defend our country.

"However, we realise that victory came at a cost and that is why we must also commemorate 'The Few' and remember the ultimate sacrifices they and their families made for our freedom.

"We know that this area played a major role in many of the key aviation milestones of World War II and many people welcome somewhere to focus their thoughts on such a historic day."

Flight Lieutenant Andy Cutts, Commanding Officer of 47F Squadron to read the Battle of Britain reading: "2021 marks the 81st anniversary of the Battle of Britain which took place between July and October 1940. The 15 September 1940 was officially named Battle of Britain Day as it was the day when RAF Fighter Command claimed what proved to be a decisive victory over the German Luftwaffe.

"Remembering, and more importantly understanding, the violence and barbarism we are capable of inflicting on others, is a way for the younger generation to build on those lessons and learn from them."

Father Clay Roundtree, Parish of St. Wulfram's, led the prayers and bugler Samuel Davie played the Last Post to commemorate the fallen.

The Battle of Britain followed the Dunkirk evacuations and the fall of France, when the RAF were deployed to prevent Germany from gaining air supremacy and, ultimately, invading Britain. The 15 September 1940 was officially named Battle of Britain Day as it was It marked a turning point in the Second World War with the first major victory against the German military.

More information is available by visiting rafbf.org/battleofbritain