But, at RAF Wittering, being buzzed by the aircraft was all part of the entertainment, as family and friends of servicemen got together to celebrate the lighter side of armed forces life.

The vast airbase, near Peterborough, had been transformed, and mixed in among the static aircraft were air-rifle games, face painters, burger stalls and a bouncy castle to welcome the thousands of guests through its gates.

And from tots in pushchairs to veterans in wheelchairs proudly displaying their medals, even the weather could not dampen their spirits – despite the simulated airfield attack by a Harrier having to be cancelled due to low cloud and safety reasons,

RAF Corporal Mark Walker, who has recently seen action in Oman, said the day was the highlight of his 10-year-old son’s year.

Crpl Walker, who was there with his wife and three other children, said: “My son is mad about all things to do with planes, and it’s great that your family can see where you work and socialise as well.

“When you have been away, it’s good to come back to see your families having fun, as it makes it worthwhile.”

Local schools had also been invited, and pupils from nearby Wittering Primary School, cheered loudly as their teachers, Corinna Selby and Helen Burton, braved the climbing wall.

And members of the local branches of the RAF and Royal Navy associations and the Royal British Legion were also out in force.

One of the biggest worries for families is the health and safety of their loved ones in battle zones, and going a long way to providing reassurance was the medical crew, who comprised emergency nurses trained at Peterborough District Hospital.

Squadron Leader Steve Doyle claimed it was the best job in the RAF, adding: “We don’t want to frighten families, so we just make sure they know that if anything happens to their mum and dad they have the best team possible on standby to fly out to them.”

Ashley Poulton was visiting his dad, Warrant Officer Steve Poulton who made sure the 12-year-old had a top spot to see the air displays.

Steve added: “It’s great to see personnel having fun and makes a huge difference to them to have their families here.

And Able Rating Paul Wennington, from 20 Squadron, brought his family, who live in nearby Wittering, despite being on crutches.

Joined by wife, Hazel, and their two little boys, Paul said: “The boys can see the planes from our garden, but it’s great for them to see them close up. they love them.”