Red Arrows and RAF Falcons wow Clacton Air Show (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Red Arrows and RAF Falcons wow Clacton Air Show

9:32am Friday 24th August 2012 in News By James Dwan

TENS of thousands of flight fanatics were wowed on the final day of Clacton Air Show by the amazing aerobatics of the Red Arrows.

Organisers estimated between 120,000 and 130,000 people descended upon the resort for the two-day event, which is this year celebrating its 21st anniversary.

The Red Arrows returned to Clacton this year having pulled out of last year’s event following the tragic death of Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging at Bournemouth Air Show just a week before.

The display was followed by the Tucano, the Hawk and then the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

The impressive Lancaster bomber was unable to take part on Thursday due to pilot illness, but was back in action on Friday for the poignant fly past.

King Air then took to the skies, followed by the Breitling Wingwalker, the Sea King helicopter and the Trig aerobatic display team.

The RAF Falcons parachute display team then closed the show, hitting their targets despite the wind picking up at the end of the event.

Stephen Mayzes, Tendring Council's cabinet member for tourism, said the show has been a massive boost for the town.

"I walked along the greensward and prom and saw every kiosk packed, as was the town centre,” he said.

"Last year there was some uncertainty over the future of the show, but a report found it is worth £3.7million to the local economy.

"This event is crucial to the town. It is the local residents, tourists and businesses who benefit and the council is happy to facilitate that.

"The air show is here to stay."

 

 

Live tweets from the air show

Clacton and Frinton Gazette has no responsibility or control over the content on external blogging sites, but you can contact us if you have a complaint.