The Queen on her final visit to the RAF base

The visit to RAF Coltishall in Norfolk, marked its 65th anniversary.

The station, which is due to close at the end of 2006, has been used continuously since June 1940 for fighter operations.

After a fly-past by nine Jaguar fighter planes, the Queen inspected the Guard of Honour before meeting service personnel and their families.

Station closing

RAF Coltishall is home to No 41 (Fighter) Squadron and No 6 Squadron.

No 41 (Fighter) Squadron is due to disband on 31 March, 2006, and on 1 April, 2006, No 6 Squadron will relocate to RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire.

The Secretary of State for Defence announced the decision to close the station, which is home to more than 1,700 servicemen and civilians, as part of a reorganisation of the British Armed Services in July last year.

Station commander, Group Captain Graham Wright, said the Queen's visit was an honour.

"Naturally she is interested in the military who serve her and serve the country.

"The station opened two weeks before the Battle of Britain, and for her to come in the 65th year of both celebrations is fantastic. It is a really good way to celebrate."