Onlookers were given a treat as a huge military plane flew over the North East and North Yorkshire skies - and quite close too.

The mammoth RAF C-17 Globemaster wowed those looking up as it circled its way across Teesside, Darlington and parts of Richmondshire on Friday.

The aircraft, which is based at RAF Brize Norton, is described as being long range and designed to closely support the military in areas where there is combat.

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According to sources, the aircraft had been completing crew training and could be seen lower than usual as it was operating from nearby Teesside Airport.

The Northern Echo: The aircraft on Friday Picture: LEE TURNERThe aircraft on Friday Picture: LEE TURNER

The Northern Echo: The aircraft banking over the North East Picture: PAUL GALEThe aircraft banking over the North East Picture: PAUL GALE (Image: Picture: PAUL GALE)

People took to social media in their droves after hearing the Globemaster approach to their delight.

One Northern Echo Camera Club member jokingly said: "I'm sure this plane nearly knocked the TV aerial off my roof today."

In an update later that day, Teesside Airport bosses confirmed the aircraft had stopped to refuel at the landing strip.

In a brief statement, the airport said: "We’re always happy to support our RAF."

The Northern Echo: Picture: TEESSIDE AIRPORTPicture: TEESSIDE AIRPORT

The Northern Echo: Picture: TEESSIDE AIRPORTPicture: TEESSIDE AIRPORT

The Northern Echo has approached the Royal Air Force for comment.

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