Church-goers Carrie and Doug Melbourne and Alison Meardon are behind a new hymn dedicated to the RAF Benevolent Fund.

England was penned by Mrs Melbourne, recorded by Mr Melbourne and sung by Ms Meardon after the Father’s Day Cotswold Air Show in Kemble, Gloucestershire.

All three attend St Mary’s in Calne, and live on the street next to the church.

Mrs Melbourne, whose uncle Squadron Leader John D Cotter served in the RAF during the Second World War, said: “I was just so inspired by watching the pilots in the show.

“It was so wonderful watching them fly. They had a poise and grace and dedication to their craft.

“I felt that these qualities tied in with those of my religion, and I wanted to do something to contribute to the RAF. I wrote many of the lyrics on a piece of paper while I was wandering around on the day.”

Mrs Melbourne was bass player with Mike Oldfield, whose hugely popular 1973 album Tubular Bells launched Virgin Records, and is now hoping to train as a priest.

She said: “It’s a real labour of love for us.

“I moved here about ten years ago and I think I’m a bit of a local now.

“This is my home, and it’s the home of my seven-year-old son Charlie. We wanted to create a tribute for the church and for the men of the RAF.”

“A real dream for us would be to perform the hymn as part of Battle of Britain’s 70th anniversary on September 15.”

The hymn was recorded in the Melbournes’ studio, and the video of Ms Meardon was filmed by Mr Melbourne on Kennet Long Barrow.

Ms Meardon, who sings with the BBC symphony chorus and has performed at the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, said: “Both of my parents were in the RAF. I think that’s one of the reasons it was so appealing to me, and why I wanted to be a part of it all.”

Ms Meardon, a manager with the NHS blood service, said: “You create some very strong relationships when you are bonded through music.

“I am still in touch with my first violin teacher, whom I have known since I was eight, and a singing teacher whom I have known since I was 14.

“When Carrie asked me to be involved, I was very excited.”

The Rev Bob Kenway of St Mary’s said: “I think it’s a very important way to commemorate an important period in the Second World War when the skill and courage of our RAF pilots were second to none.

“It’s also a good way of raising some money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

“I do hope it’s a hymn people will want to sing on Battle of Britain Sunday.”

To watch England, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krXEyh64BRg