Your Ilkley Radio

4:00pm - 6:30am

Email the studio

Lady Gaga

Bad Romance

Listen Live Podcasts

History will roar over Ilkley Half Marathon

Thursday, 5 June 2025 at 14:16

A legendary RAF Spitfire will take to the skies above Ilkley for the Ilkley Half Marathon in July

The unmistakable roar of history is set to echo across Wharfedale this summer as a legendary RAF Spitfire takes to the skies above Ilkley on Sunday 13th July.

The iconic World War II fighter aircraft will perform a ceremonial flypast over Ilkley, delighting the crowds gathered in the Ilkley Half Marathon event village on West Holmes Field. The Spitfire is planned to fly directly over the event village where spectators can support runners, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the live music, food and drink on offer.

Ilkley Half Marathon and the new Ilkley 5K is organised by Ilkley & District Round Table and the flyover has been arranged with support from the Royal Air Force’s Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

“To witness a Spitfire soaring above Ilkley is something truly unforgettable,”

said Michael Odell, Race Director,

“It’s a living tribute to the heroes of our past and a moment of unity for our community. We can’t wait to share this incredible experience with runners and spectators alike.”

The Spitfire, known for its pivotal role in the Battle of Britain, remains one of the most recognisable and beloved aircraft in British history. The flyover not only offers a nod to the past but serves as a soaring reminder of the values we still hold dear—resilience, service, and pride.

Closer to the event once timings become known they will be announced via social media channels.

More from Local news

Yorkshire Garden Centres raises more than £106,000 for children's hospice

Yorkshire Garden Centres has raised more than £106,000 for Martin House Children's Hospice.
Yorkshire Water boss to step down after lowest possible environmental rating

Yorkshire Water's chief executive is to step down, just 24 hours after the company received the lowest possible environmental rating.
Young artists and photographers invited to enter Ilkley Rotary competitions

Young artists and photographers in Ilkley are being invited to showcase their creativity in two competitions organised by Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary Club.
£65million Leeds Bradford Airport railway station described as ‘critical’ for region

A proposed parkway station for Leeds Bradford Airport is “absolutely critical” for the region, a meeting has been told.
Ilkley Harriers runners impress for England at international mountain race

Two runners from Ilkley Harriers have helped England secure an impressive result at a prestigious international mountain running event in Italy.
Ilkley fundraiser to help deliver humanitarian vehicles to Ukraine

An Ilkley fundraiser is aiming to raise £2,000 to help deliver vital humanitarian vehicles and children's books to Ukraine.
Yorkshire charity marks partnership supporting families affected by domestic abuse

A Yorkshire children's charity is marking its long-standing partnership with a domestic abuse support organisation, which has helped families across the region rebuild their lives.
Ilkley households could face 4.99% Council Tax rise under Bradford Council budget plans

Ilkley residents could face a 4.99% Council Tax increase from April 2027 under new budget proposals from Bradford Council.
Ilkley residents can vote to bring Coca-Cola Christmas Truck to town

Ilkley residents have the chance to vote for the town to receive a visit from the iconic Coca-Cola Christmas Truck this festive season.
Christmas market returns to Ilkley community hub with over 20 stalls

A popular Christmas market is returning to Ilkley's Clarke Foley Community Hub this November, featuring more than 20 independent stalls and live festive music.
Entries to open for 2027 Ilkley Half Marathon and 5K next month

Entries for the 2027 Ilkley Half Marathon and 5K will open this weekend, with thousands of runners expected to take part in the popular annual event.
Ilkley Cycle Races appeals for volunteers to help organise popular event

Organisers of the Ilkley Cycle Races are appealing for local volunteers to help plan and deliver one of the town's biggest annual sporting events.
Ilkley beauty salon raises £225 for breast cancer charity

An Ilkley beauty salon has raised £225 for Breast Cancer Now after hosting a special fundraising event.
Glow Together walk to raise funds for Martin House

Families are being invited to join a glow-in-the-dark walk in Boston Spa to raise money for Martin House Children’s Hospice.
New record shop celebrates successful opening weekend

A new independent record shop has opened in Ilkley, with its owners celebrating a successful first weekend despite the stormy weather.
Ilkley Remembrance Sunday parade and service details announced

Ilkley Town Council has confirmed details of this year's Remembrance Sunday parade and service, taking place on Sunday 8th November.
Police shut down 180 county lines drug operations across West Yorkshire

A specialist police taskforce tackling drug dealing across West Yorkshire has shut down 180 county lines operations and made 250 arrests in its first year.
Ilkley Beer Festival to return in February with £20 early bird tickets

Ilkley Beer Festival will return to the King's Hall and Winter Garden in February 2027, with tickets going on sale next month.
Golf legend Colin Montgomerie honours long-serving Ilkley Golf Club staff

Two members of staff at Ilkley Golf Club have been recognised for more than 40 years of service each, with golfing legend Colin Montgomerie presenting them with commemorative plaques.
Ilkley group sponsors new football kit for Skipton girls' team

Skipton Juniors Under 16 Girls have received a brand-new football kit thanks to sponsorship from Soroptimist International Ilkley.