AN illustrated talk on the history of RAF Harrowbeer, Yelverton's Second World War Fighter station, will be given in St John's Church, Horrabridge, tomorrow (Friday).

The talk will be given by Stephen Fryer, an expert on RAF Harrowbeer, who wrote and published a book on the history of the airfield in 2010.

RAF Harrowbeer, so-called to avoid any confusion between Yelverton and Yeovilton, became operational in 1941, when it was used first by 500 Squadron, flying Bristol Blenheims.

It was then in continuous use throughout the war, with various squadrons based there flying Spitfires, Lysanders, Boulton Paul Defiants, Mustangs, Typhoons and other types of aircraft.

The station played a significant role during Operation Overlord, the D-Day invasion of Normandy.

Stephen Fryer is giving the talk to help the Friends of St John's raise funds for refurbishment projects in the church, including the installation of kitchen facilities to enable light snacks and refreshments to be prepared on site for events taking place there, and the replacement of some, or all, of the pews with chairs.

Stephen's talk begins at 7.30pm. Admission per adult is £3, including tea or coffee and biscuits, and children are free.