A NORTH Yorkshire airbase welcomed troops from a Canadian squadron for the first time since 1945.

A transport aircraft from the 426 Thunderbird Squadron landed at RAF Linton-on-Ouse last week, carrying troops for a series of training and ceremonial events.

Thunderbird Squadron was based at RAF Dishforth and Linton-on-Ouse between 1943 and 1945, as part of Bomber Command, and flew 268 missions, and supported ground forces after D-Day.

During their visit, the airmen and women from the Canadian Air Force will visit the memorials to 426 Sqn at Dishforth, Linton-on-Ouse, Newton-on-Ouse and Beningbrough Hall, where a Canadian Maple Tree will be planted in memory of the airmen and women who were billeted and worked there during the Second World War.

Group Captain Terry Jones said “It’s a real honour to welcome the Thunderbirds back to Linton. We are very conscious of the stations distinguished history and of the squadrons, both RAF and RCAF, who have served here. I would also like to thank all those people in the local area who have kept the memory of the RCAF alive and who are always so welcoming to our Canadian friends.”