A CEREMONY was held yesterday to mark the disbandment of a distinguished RAF fighter squadron.

11 Squadron has flown Tornado F3s out of RAF Leeming, in North Yorkshire, for 17 years.

The aircraft is being replaced by the new Typhoon fighter.

The unit will temporarily disband until it takes delivery of the new aeroplane.

However, it will be based at RAF Coningsby, in Lincolnshire, rather than Leeming, when it reforms.

Wing Commander Mike Tetlow, the squadron's commanding officer, said: "I feel privileged to have been in command of 11 Squadron during one of the most exciting and productive periods in the history of the squadron as a Tornado F3 unit.

"The disbandment closes another chapter in the long and distinguished history of this venerable fighter squadron.

"Although the closure is an occasion tinged with sadness, I believe all past and present members can be immensely proud of the enduring contribution they have made to the vital defence roles undertaken by the squadron over the past 17 years."

The squadron arrived at Leeming with the Tornado in 1988.

It has previously served in both World Wars, operating a total of 27 different types of aircraft, from almost 100 different locations worldwide.

The disbandment was commemorated at Leeming yesterday with a parade and flypast. The squadron's standard will be laid temporarily at RAF Cranwell.

On Friday, the squadron conducted a flypast of sites that it has worked closely with over the years, including RAF Coningsby, RAF Leuchars and RAF Boulmer.