Retired RAF pilots had their wish granted by a care home as they were taken to visit the planes they once flew in the 1980s.

Staff at Care UK’s Harrier Lodge, in Whitstable, took two residents on a trip to the RAF Manston History Museum.

John Orminston, 77, and Alan Sansom, 89, visited the site in Ramsgate after staff at their home found out about their time as pilots.

As they were given the guided tour and shown the collection of jets, both were able to recall the controls on the aircraft.

"It brought back so many fond memories from my time in the sky. I really enjoyed it," Mr Sansom said.

Mr Orminston added: "I had a great time back in my flying days and loved revisiting the planes at the museum."

Mr Orminston began his work with the RAF aged 16 as an electronics engineer.

Later in his career, he became a flying officer and was based in the south of England.

On the other hand, Mr Sansom joined the RAF at the age of 18 before being stationed in Hampshire.

Harrier Lodge are committed to their residents leading "fulfilling lives" through their wishing tree initiative, which allows them to suggest activities they want to take part in.

Home manager at Harrier Lodge, Sadie Porteous, said: "At Harrier Lodge, we encourage residents to lead fulfilling lives, whether that comes from helping out in the garden, or flying down memory lane like John and Alan."

"Everyone at the museum was astounded by the knowledge both of them had of the jets and just how comfortable they both felt being back onboard – something most of us would find nerve-racking."

The initiative allows residents from the home to suggest anything from ziplining to a fish and chip dinner.

Ms Porteous added: "Both of them had a brilliant time, and it was great to see their faces light up the room when they saw the planes close up."