Farewell parade in Cyprus marks retirement of RAF Puma after 54 years of service

The iconic Puma HC2 has been officially retired after 54 years of service in the Royal Air Force.

The parade by 84 Squadron at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus marked the end of Puma's long-running career.

The ceremony was just one of a series of events which took place around the world, celebrating the helicopter's service.

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Earlier this week, ceremonies were held at Puma's home, RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, as well as Brunei.

A two-day flight around England, Wales and Northern Ireland marked the official end of service.

Fight Sergeant Mike Waugh spent 26 years of his three-decade career flying the Puma, amassing 6,500 flying hours, including in Northern Ireland.

"It’s quite emotional to see it go," he said. "I don't think it's hit yet.

"I've spent such a long time with this aircraft. It all comes to a point when you realise a big part of your life is about to go."

The Puma HC2 served extensively in Northern Ireland, as well as on deployments to Belize and the former Yugoslavia.

84 Squadron's outgoing Officer Commanding, Wing Commander  Dusko Frost described the event as an "emotional farewell" having served on Puma throughout his career.

"It's one of those honours and privileges that you only get once in your life. It has absolutely been that for me.

"Having two years here in sunny Cyprus in command of a fantastic squadron with an enormous amount of heritage with this aircraft has been particularly special."

Pumas have conducted aerial firefighting and emergency response across the island for the last two years, taking over from the Griffin Mk2.

Now the duties will be adopted by CH-47 Chinooks until Puma's official replacement, Jupiter Mk 2, arrives.

The incoming Officer Commanding, Squadron Leader Garry McKay, said it's a time of "busy change" for the squadron and the RAF.

"The squadron's not going anywhere. We are reducing in size over the next six months as we prepare for the new helicopter coming in, but we'll grow again," he said.