THE Prince of Wales has been invited to Barnard Castle to attend events to mark the 30th anniversary of Teesdale Aviation day.
Aviation Day was founded in 1995 by Tony Galley and former town mayor John Yarker as a way to commemorate those who have died as a result of air accidents in the skies above the dale.
A day of events to mark the anniversary is planned for September 20 and is being co-ordinated by Mr Galley’s son Chris and the town council.
Along with the heir to the throne, the Chief of Air Staff Sir Richard Knighton and the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham Sue Snowden have been invited.
In addition to the usual service in the Galgate Memorial Garden, a grand march-past through the town is planned.
Taking part would be the Royal Air Force and RAF cadet units from the area, including Barnard Castle School. An Air Force band has been asked to play.
Mr Galley said it was also hoped a fly past by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight would be part of the day’s activities.
He told town councillors the rest of the day would include talks, demonstrations and exhibitions on the lower Demesnes.
“There may be the chance to fly a virtual aircraft and sit in a cock pit,” said Mr Galley.
“There will be artefacts from the Second World War to the present day and possibly a display of military vehicles.”
It is also hoped a number of aviation authors will visit.
Among other highlights planned is a “digital museum” – an interactive weather and vandal proof screen designed for public use and located at the memorial garden.
Mr Galley said it would give visitors access to information about the aviation and military history of Barnard Castle and the surrounding area.
“It could be the start of local walks and drives and will be an educational and cultural asset for years to come and may be a way of getting young people interested.”
Mr Galley said he aimed to involve schools and youth groups and hoped those living and working in the town would get on board and that Barney would be “dressed” for the occasion.
“A royal visit will create a large footfall to the town of between 2,000 and 3,000 people and the events planned would help to retain them for the day.”
Town council clerk Martin Clark said the 30th anniversary of Teesdale Aviation Day was a “unique opportunity for Barnard Castle to celebrate its heritage, engage with the local and wider community and boost tourism”.
He said it would require careful planning and involve attracting extra funding, although there would be no increase in the council tax precept to pay for it.
Councillors agreed to support plans for the Aviation Day anniversary celebrations and Mr Clark will update members on progress.
