The Mayor of Dudley is urging people to show their support for heroes of a World War II battle next weekend.

Dudley Royal Air Force Association (RAFA), together with Dudley Council, will pay tribute to the heroes of the famous World War II battle of the sky, known as the Battle of Britain, on Sunday 17 September.

The day will include a service at St Thomas and St Luke’s Church (Top Church), a parade through the town centre and the laying of wreaths at the cenotaph in Ednam Road, Dudley.

The parade, led by the Kingswinford ATC squadron band, will include members of RAFA and borough RAF Air Cadet squadrons and will be joined for the first time by serving personnel from RAF Cosford. Councillor Dave Tyler, Mayor of Dudley, said:

“We are proud of our strong links with the armed forces and we are honoured that RAF Cosford will be leading this year’s parade.

 “Events like this remind us all of the huge sacrifice they make and I hope that people will come along on the day to show their support.”

At 11am the parade will make its way through the town centre to the church.  Setting off from Priory Road, the parade will continue along Priory Street, Stone Street and High Street.

Residents are invited to attend the service at St Thomas and St Luke’s Church at 11.30am. This will be followed by a parade past the Council House in Priory Road, where the Mayor, Group Captain Baker from RAF Cosford and representative from RAFA will receive a salute.

The parade will end at the cenotaph in Ednam Road where a short service will take place including a period of silence and laying of wreaths.