A NEW Royal Air Force Association group is taking flight following the immensely popular visit of a replica Spitfire to Kendal.

The hand-built aircraft attracted hundreds of visitors to during August's RAF centenary weekend, brought to New Road by the town's Business Improvement District (BID).

Seeing the aircraft up close led many people to ask why the charity had no local branch for people to show their support for the RAF, its servicemen and women past and present, and their families.

Just four months later, thanks to a groundswell of support, a new RAFA group has been set up for Kendal and South Lakeland. The first meeting is to be arranged this month.

Brian Harrison, vice-chair of Kendal BID, said it was "always going to be difficult to top the experience" of the Spitfire starring in Kendal's RAF100 celebrations. But he said the creation of the new group would have "a lasting impact on our area" and had been made possible by "the coming together of a terrific group of people" of all ages.

"These fantastic people have varied skills to offer but the one thing they all have in common is they have the RAF family close to their hearts," said Mr Harrison, who served in the RAF.

"The group includes RAF veterans, ex-RAF cadets, serving RAF personnel, families of those who served, parents of cadets and, last but by no means least, business people who have offered their premises for members to hold socials and events.

"The future for the group is looking good, but there is still room for you if you meet the minimum age of 18 and fancy enjoying yourselves while supporting the RAF family."

Younger people can also take part through free membership of the RAF Association's scheme for 13 to 17-year-olds, with prizes to be won such as flying lessons and trips to meet the Red Arrows during their winter training in Cyprus - see www.rafayouth.org.uk for more.

Mr Harrison said RAFA's area office would be helping the new Kendal and South Lakes group to build a full branch infrastructure, with the first meeting is to be arranged this month.

If you would like to get involved, you can register your interest by visiting Relish cafe, Market Place, Kendal; the Fantastic Kendal shop on Finkle Street; or the town's New Union pub on Stricklandgate. Or send an email to kendalrafa@gmail.com; phone 07739-467574; or visit www.rafa.org.uk