by Harriet Robinson

A Folkestone-born airman made a special visit home to pay
tribute to the Battle of Britain heroes.

Sergeant Robert Paul Kesby, who is serving with the

Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), laid poppies on Sunday at
the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne.

While on holiday in Kent he contacted the Battle of Britain Memorial Trust to say he wanted to pay his respects to the members of the RNZAF who died during the battle.

Sergeant Kesby, who emigrated three years ago, was greeted
by Flight Lieutenant Bernard Hyde, the longest-serving active
trustee, when he presented the trust with an RNZAF ensign.

He then scattered poppies and read out a tribute in honour of
the heroes.

Sunday was also ANZAC Day and Sgt Kesby also honoured members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who fought in Turkey during World War I.

He said: "It was a moving experience and I was glad to be able
to pay my respects to those brave men on what is an important day
for the people of Australia and New Zealand."

This year is the 70 anniversary of the Memorial Day
parade. The trust is hoping for a record turnout at Capel-le-Ferne
on July 11.