It is one of the world's most famous and evocative poems about aviation, and it will be read as a poignant tribute to the Royal Air Force at an upcoming British Prom at Blickling Hall Estate.

High Flight, which starts with the lines: 'Oh I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth, And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings', will be part of the August 11 event, which will part of the 100th anniversary celebrations of the RAF.

The poem was written by a 19 year-old wartime Spitfire pilot with the Royal Canadian Air Force, John Gillespie Magee.

The evening of entertainment will also include a sunset ceremony with a parade involving personnel from RAF Marham.

And preccedings will being with a flypast of a Rolls-Royce Spitfire.

Station Commander at RAF Marham, Group Captain Townsend, said: 'On behalf of RAF Marham personnel, I am very grateful that we have been given the opportunity to parade at Blickling Hall amongst some of our friends and supporters from the region.

'It is an historic year for the Royal Air Force as we celebrate our centenary and to be able to celebrate at events, such as those held at Blickling, is a real honour.

'To know we have such support in our local community makes a real difference and helps us enormously as we prepare for and conduct operations.'

Lisa Ward from organisers Revival Productions said: 'There is such a tremendous respect for all of our armed forces and we're very happy to be able to pay tribute through this event. I think it's going to be a very emotional evening with some fantastic music.'

Later on, the AeroSPARX display duo will put on a wingtip pyrotechnics display.

The musical programme will include Proms favourites like Rule Britannia, Land of Hope and Glory and Jerusalem, and the evening will close with a spectacular firework display over the lake choreographed to the music. For full event details and tickets (£37.50) visit www.greatbritishprom.co.uk or call the event box office on 01283 841601.

Parking is free and guests can bring their picnics and champagne, wave their flags, sing along and soak up the atmosphere with friends. And, for those who like to dress for the occasion, there will be a magnum of champagne on offer for the best fancy-dress costume.

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