by Emma Grove

Hundreds of people lined the streets of Eastchurch to celebrate 100 years of Naval Aviation to kick off the Island’s celebrations.
The Royal Navy’s Fly Navy 100 event took place in Eastchurch on Friday.
Cheyne Middle School pupils formed a guard of honour for dignitaries including the Admiral Sir Raymond Lygo KCB, vice chief of naval staff and First Sea Lord, Rear Admiral Simon Charlier, head of the Fleet Air Arm, the Mayor and Mayoress of Swale, Cllrs Alan and Jean Willicombe and leader of Swale council Cllr Andrew Bowles.

VIPs led a procession from All Saints Church in the High Street across the road to the Pioneer Memorial.
Guests and dignitaries gathered around the Pioneer Memorial as the Fleet Air Arm Association National Standard and Guard marched on and conducted a salute to the VIP party.
The Chaplain of the Fleet, the Venerable John Green QHC, and ministers then began a service of thanksgiving to celebrate Fly Navy 100 and the part Eastchurch and Sheppey played in the history of aviation.
Readings and prayers followed, including a speech from Commander Max Snow.
The Rear Admiral Simon Charlier, head of the Fleet Air Arm, then gave a speech.
At 2pm there was a fly past of Royal Navy Harriers, Hawks and Falcons and a historic De Havilland Sea Vixen.
The Fleet Air Arm Association National Standard and Guard were marched off to end the service.

For more pictures and full report, including the events at Muswell Manor this weekend, see next week's Times Guardian.