A BATTLE of Britain parade set to take place in Pitsea this weekend is in need of rescue operation itself after the band set to lead it suddenly pulled out.

Organisers of the event, now an annual fixture, are pleading for a replacement marching band to be scrambled to help save the procession.

Veterans, community groups and residents will turn out in force on Sunday, to march in honour of those who died fighting in the famous Second World War air battle.

The procession, which will leave the Pitsea branch of the Royal British Legion in Rectory Road, at 10.15am, was due to be led by the Southend Highland Pipers.

However, the band has had to pull out due to unforeseen circumstances.

Peter Feltham, president of the Bowers Gifford RAF Association, who served in the forces after the Second World War, said: “I could have cried when I was told the news.

“We have worked so hard to make the parade bigger and better every year.

“We are urgently seeking another band to come forward and give up a couple of hours of their time, to join us in making this year’s Battle of Britain parade a success.

“This is such a special day to remember the brave heroes of the Battle of Britain.

“Families and residents always line the streets as we pass to salute, but without music it just won’t be the same.”

The parade will go from the Royal British Legion, to the newly-refubished war memorial in Howards Park, for a wreath-laying ceremony at 10.50am.

A service will be held shortly afterwards at nearby St Gabriel’s Church.

The battle, which was fought over Britain between July 10 and October 31, 1940, is considered the most important in Royal Air Force history.

It inspired Winston Churchill’s most famous speech: “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few”.

Any band which can help on Sunday, can call Peter on 07860 115154.