UPDATE: BBMF’s Lancaster Thumper could be out for months after mid-flight engine fire over RAF Coningsby - but is given ‘Get Well Soon’ card from Tattershall nine-year-old

But, Dunc Mason, OC BBMF, has assured the public that all events ‘Thumper’ was due to take part in during May and June will be covered by either the Dakota or a fighter if the Lancaster cannot return to the skies in time.

He also praised the crew, who landed the plane safely at RAF Coningsby.

He said: “Things have been a little frenetic at the Flight since Thursday.

“There is of course lots of speculation as to what happened, but the fact is that after a problem with the number 4 engine, the Lancaster crew did a brilliant job of both handling the emergency and getting the aircraft on the ground quickly and safely.

“All of the crew are safe and the aircraft is intact in the hangar where investigation as to the cause of the problem is being conducted.”

The fire means the Lancaster is not able to take part in VE celebrations today, but three fighters will perform a flypast over Horseguards Parade prior to the Red Arrows.

Sqn Ldr Dun Mason added: “I know that this doesn’t answer all questions, but at present we don’t have all the answers.

“I thank everyone for all the support that you have shown and encourage you to remain patient and I know that we all look forward to seeing her back in the air again as soon as possible.”

And Thumper has even received a ‘Get Well Soon’ card from nine-year-old Tattershall Primary School pupil Holly, which she made herself.