Top Gun takes sell-out crowd's breath away at RAF Cosford

Top Gun came winging its way to the airbase with sell-out crowds on Saturday night.

Revellers gathered with snacks, drinks and aviator sunglasses to the open-air showing of the Tom Cruise film classic.

Take My Breath Away by Berlin, taken from the soundtrack, blasted from the speakers as crowds queued for the film to begin at 8.30pm.

The event saw a huge 24ft inflatable screen erected alongside the VC10 and Hercules aircraft, which was transformed into a neon popcorn bar.

Lisa and Paul Slater, from Wall Heath, attended with their son Jamie, 12.

Lisa said: "Jamie loves Cosford and Top Gun is our favourite film. It seemed the perfect match.

"We've never been to something like this before but so far the setup looks amazing.

"We've brought snacks, drinks and sweets."

Carrie-Ann and David Swan had travelled from Rugeley. Carrie-Ann was keen to see main man Tom Cruise.

She said: "We came to the museum with our children a few weeks ago and saw this advertised and knew we had to come.

"I love the flight suits and Tom, this is just a classic.

"It's really exciting how they have done the layout with the hanger too. It's just a great event for family and aviation enthusiasts."

A selection of American-inspired street food, all served from a converted yellow American school bus were also on offer as well as themed cocktails served from a converted VW Campervan. Hot drinks were available from Hank, a converted American Dodge Van.

Samantha Norton and Kevin McAllister, from Stafford, said the event was the perfect chance to try 'something different'.

They added: "We've got our blankets ready and some snacks. It's just the perfect chance to experience something like this."

RAF Museum Cosford public events manager, Abi Betteridge, said: “We are excited to be launching our first ever outdoor cinema event here and are thrilled at how popular it has proven to be.

"It’s such an iconic film and so fitting for us as a venue. Watching a military movie surrounded by real military aircraft should be a real experience."

The American romantic military action film stars Tom Cruise as Lieutenant Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell, a hotshot fighter pilot who’s reckless attitude puts him at odds with his fellow pilots.