Life in the shadow of ‘spy’ base RAF Waddington post Fairford

The MoD does not comment on specific security measures, but says the public should be reassured the UK and its allies remain vigilant against potential threats and security is taken extremely seriously.

“The protection of our bases is kept under constant review, with a multi-layered approach that includes physical barriers, patrols, surveillance, monitoring, and counter-drone capabilities,” says a RAF spokesman.

“As part of this, we encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.”

Here in “Waddo”, the nickname given to the village by locals, people appear to be doing just that, although there is not understood to be any specific threat against this station or any other.

In the case of Fairford, a farmer called the police to report suspicious activity.

“We also tend to spot when something is out of the ordinary,” adds Chris, 67.

“Spotters and photographers are a close community. We all talk here as well as online. Everyone knows each other.”

On the other side of a hedgerow that flanks the busy road, a twin-seated F-16 fighter bearing the Belgian flag on its tail-fin lands, sending enthusiasts scurrying to the fence in search of the perfect shot.