TV personality Carol Vorderman joined Rochester and Strood MP Kelly Tolhurst to launch the All Party Parliamentary Group on general aviation.

The group intends to promote the interests of aviation to government and business, and to protect airfields from closure and redevelopment.

Miss Vorderman stressed the importance of the Air Cadets, for whom she is an ambassador, to the training of tomorrow’s young pilots and engineers.

Miss Tolhurst said: “It is great to bring to parliament a forum that looks out for smaller airfields, all of which contribute hugely to our economy, skills and culture.

“Rochester Airport has delivered this and more to Medway over generations, and it is in our interest to see it flourish and grow.”