Iconic Lancaster Bomber flypast to honour Stoke-on-Trent Day

An iconic Second World War aircraft will fly over Stoke-on-Trent later this week as part of the city’s Centenary celebrations.

The People’s Parade and Party in the Park, taking place on Saturday, 7 June 2025, will be marked by a flypast from a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster Bomber.

One of the most notable aircraft of the Second World War, the Lancaster became famous for its role in the Dambusters raids and missions over occupied Europe.

The aircraft, will approach from west to east just after 3pm, flying over Stoke on Trent College, across Hanley Park and then the city centre, providing a striking tribute from the skies as the Party in the Park unfolds below.

One of only two airworthy Lancasters in the world, the plane is part of the Royal Air Force’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and is a powerful symbol of the UK’s wartime resilience.

Stoke-on-Trent Lord Mayor, and Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Steve Watkins, said: “I’m honoured to welcome the RAF’s iconic Lancaster Bomber to our skies for the very first Stoke-on-Trent Day.

“This flypast will be a spectacular moment - visually striking, but also deeply meaningful. It stands as a powerful tribute to our city’s role in the Second World War and our long-standing history of service and resilience.

“In our Centenary year, this is especially poignant. I encourage everyone to find a good vantage point, look to the skies and take pride in the rich heritage of Stoke-on-Trent.”

The Lancaster can be tracked on the day via Flight Radar 24 using aircraft reference PA474.

The People’s Parade is a major event in the city’s Centenary programme and will feature community groups, marching bands, artists and performers from across all six towns. The Party in the Park will keep the 100th birthday celebrations going in Hanley Park until 6pm.

For more information and the full Centenary programme go to: sot100.org.uk.