Nottingham 2 August 2010

"NEVER in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few." With these famous words Winston Churchill honoured the air crews that had fought and won what he himself had coined the Battle of Britain.

Seventy years on from skies darkened by the threat of the German Luftwaffe and liberated by the skill and bravery of Spitfire and Hurricane pilots, today's Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment pay tribute to the fallen heroes who claimed that victory. Conducted with aplomb by Flying Officer Richard Murray, and accompanied by Kiwi soprano Hayley Westenra, the orchestra took us through two hours of wartime tunes with precision and majesty.

Narrating the story of the battle was Squadron Leader Tom Jones, painting a grim picture of what Hitler had in mind for Britain by attempting to destroy the Allied air force. But he underestimated the tenacity and courage of this international collection of flying aces who defended our islands almost to the point of obliteration.

In memory of The Few, the RAF band played most of the classic War film themes – the Battle of Britain, 633 Squadron, and The Dambusters March. Interspersed with contemporary music of the era, including a medley of London tunes and Glenn Miller's In the Mood, Hayley Westenra sang a delightful handful of songs.

Closing the show with a poignant rendition of Abide With Me and an uplifting performance of Dame Vera's classic We'll Meet Again, the ensuing standing ovation proved that for the RAF Band this was their finest hour.

Joel Wainwright