A PROCESSION of helicopters flew over Bradford city centre earlier today to honour an RAF war hero whose funeral was being held in the city.

The funeral of Master Aircrew Tim Shooter was being held at Bradford Cathedral, and a flypast of two Chinook dual-rotor helicopters and a Puma HC2 helicopter was organised to pass over the city.

Mr Shooter died last month aged 57 at Bradford Royal Infirmary following a battle with cancer, following 33 years' service in the Royal Air Force.

Born and raised in Wibsey, Mr Shooter attended Wibsey Junior School and Buttershaw Comprehensive before entering the Royal Air Force.

A highly-experienced pilot, crewman and instructor, Mr Shooter amassed more than 8,000 flying hours on Chinook, Merlin and Wessex aircraft, including flying on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he worked alongside the Duke of Sussex Prince Harry.

He was also a founding member of the RAF Mini Club - for serving and reservist members of the RAF who are also Mini owners.

Group Captain Adam Wardrop, station commander at RAF Benson, paid tribute to his colleague.

He said: "Master Aircrew Tim Shooter was well known to everyone who has served on the RAF Support Helicopter Force.

"A kind, humble and hugely respected man, Tim was one of the most influential crewmen of his generation and a true legend.

"During his astonishing 33 year career he left his personal mark and touched the lives of many.

"As an instructor, Tim was in a class of his own; he worked tirelessly to teach new aircrew how to operate the aircraft and kept the experienced ones on their toes too.

"There is no doubt that the high personal standards he set, his selfless nature and incredible attention to detail have all contributed to the success of every unit he has served on.

"Tim will be sorely missed by everyone that knew him and the Support Helicopter Force grieves the loss of a great friend, colleague and superb airman.”

Wing Commander Mark Pickford, Mr Shooter's commanding officer, added: "Master Aircrew Tim Shooter rose to the top of his profession during a lengthy, distinguished career.

"An excellent crewman with vast operational experience, his true passion lay in instructing the next generation, with a special ability to bring out the best in all his students.

"He fought his illness bravely to the very end, with the RAF Support Helicopter Force losing one of their finest.

"He will be sincerely missed by all those on 28 Squadron, on which he has served with immense dedication and loyalty for many years.

"Tim will be remembered as a proud Yorkshireman, an exceptional aviator respected by all, and a close friend to many.”