The service and sacrifice of all those who have served in the Royal Air Force during its 100-year history has been commemorated in west Dorset.

The centenary of the RAF was marked at a series of events over the Easter weekend.

The Bridport and Lyme Regis branch of the Royal Air Forces Association was determined to help people enjoy the RAF100 weekend, and events took place across four days.

The commemorations began at the Tiger Inn on Barrack Street, Bridport, which brewed a special beer for the occasion and the first pint was pulled by Bridport mayor, Cllr Anne Rickard, on Good Friday.

Bucky Doo Square was bustling on Saturday as crowds gathered to hear the sound of the Wessex Military Band and the stories of past, present and future members of the RAF. A collection was held for the RAFA Wings Appeal charity.

A moment of reflection took place on Easter Sunday, the official anniversary of the RAF, during which a wreath was placed on the war memorial on South Street.

An exhibition was unveiled at Bridport Town Hall on Bank Holiday Monday celebrating 100 years of the RAF’s connection with Dorset.

The display, which featured stories and pictures from around the county, has been deemed a success.

Alan Kidson, a representative for the RAF Bridport branch and whose own story and memorabilia was on display, said: "The events, so far, have been very nice and we feel they have been be successful.

"We hope that people will remember to put something in the pot, with the money going towards looking after RAF families."

To finish off the commemoration, pupils from St Mary’s Primary School shared posters they had designed with Cllr Rickard, who also opened the exhibition, presenting prizes to the best.

Pupil Samuel Smith was presented with the prize, which included a special £5 coin to commemorate the centenary.

Cllr Rickard said: "The events have been delightful.We all owe enormous thanks to the RAF for everything they have done and I congratulate them on their centenary. They have supported us so much in the past.

"The exhibition is beautifully put together and shows that we aren't forgetting, and are still remembering, everything the RAF does.

"I also enjoyed viewing the posters that the pupils of St Mary's Primary School have produced, and it was nice to present Samuel Smith with his award."

The Bridport and Lyme Regis RAFA club hopes that interest from the events held can boost group numbers.

Mr Kidson added: "Hopefully this weekend we can get people interested and to help others.

"The club is open to all, whether they are ex-RAF service personnel/families, or if they like planes."

Next up for the club is a special church service at St Mary's Church on Sunday, April 8 from 3pm.

For more information, visit rafa.org.uk/members/branches-and-clubs