Museum's education role is praised

The Yorkshire Air Museum in Elvington, York, was praised by Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, after it was awarded a "learning outside the classroom" quality badge.

He said: "I congratulate the Yorkshire Air Museum on receiving this award.

"Educational visits are among the most memorable experiences in a child's school life.

"Quality badges offer teachers a guarantee that a venue is providing the sort of educational value that they can build on in class long after the visit."

Museum director Ian Reed said: "It is a real coup for us. "We're thrilled to get official recognition for our efforts and we look forward to welcoming even more children and young people from the local area."

The museum displays examples of Second World War aircraft including a Halifax bomber and a replica of a Hawker Hurricane, which is due to be transported to Windsor Castle in a few weeks' time to be part of a springtime military tattoo.