In its seventh year, the tourist attraction has opted for a Spitfire design to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

To celebrate its opening weekend the Spitfire and Hurricane planes will by plying past the maze between 2.30pm and 3pm.

Previous years have seen the maize crop turned into HMS Victory, a rocket ship and a dinosaur. This year's "Maze Squadron" opens on Saturday, July 17, and runs until September.

The maize crop, traditionally used for cattle fodder, is carved into the cunning shapes using cutting-edge global positioning satellite technology.

On average the attraction, which is opposite Wistow Rural Centre, attracts about 15,000 visitors a year.

Landowner Diana Brooks said: "Seventy years on, the Battle of Britain still has huge resonance with young and old. This year's maze looks set to be one of our most popular themes yet, with visitors taking on the challenge of 'earning their wings' and testing their knowledge in our military quiz."

It will feature hidden clues within three miles of intricate pathways cut through the tall maize crop.

The maze also incorporates high-level bridges and viewing towers giving visitors 3D panoramic views of the complex maze and beautiful surrounding countryside.

"The Wistow Maze is a great family day out," Mrs Brooks says. "There will be a variety of mini mazes, games and table-top activities in our Activity Funyard. There is also a Space Hopper track, hoop-la and football shooting game."

It is open seven days a week from July 17 and then weekends only from Sunday, September 26. Opening hours are 10am to 6pm.

Admission costs £5.50 (children £4.50, family tickets £18). Parking is free.

For more information, visit the website www.wistow.com or phone 07884 403889.