Category: News UK

Come Fly With Me at Airbourne 2009

Get set for more dynamic flying action than ever before at Eastbourne International Airshow in 2009 as Airbourne hosts displays into the evening with a new Come Fly With Me programme on Friday 14 August.The World’s biggest FREE seafront airshow returns to Eastbourne seafront from 13-16 August with a jam-packed display schedule for 2009, including all new flying ‘til dusk on Friday evening.

Come Fly With Me will get underway at 6pm with Swing Street Band performing on the ground against a backdrop of flying displays including The Blades, Eurofighter Typhoon, and various historic displays. Plus visitors can also look forward to a special appearance from the Hawker Hurricane Bomber performing at its first seafront airshow since recommission.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Susan Morris said “This year’s airshow promises to be bigger and better than ever and I’m really excited by the new evening display on Friday. Extending the event into the evening will mean that visitors can come along after work and enjoy some spectacular displays to a big band soundtrack, with the entertainment carrying on long after that with a tribute concert at Eastbourne Bandstand offering visitors non-stop activity all day long.”

Airbourne visitors can enjoy evening entertainment on all four days of the airshow with Eastbourne Bandstand hosting a packed programme of concerts.

The Les Paul Band fill the stage on Thursday evening for Big Band Sound, while those enjoying the evening display on Friday can head straight for a Dirty Dancing Tribute Concert when the flying stops. Relive the popular songs from the Patrick Swayze movie.

Saturday sees a Buddy Holly tribute act take to the stage for a Rock ‘n’ Roll evening with Sunday welcoming the return of the popular Sunset Ceremony and Proms Concert culminating in a spectacular firework display from Eastbourne Pier for all Airbourne visitors.

The 2009 Official Airbourne Souvenir Programme is on sale now at selected stockists throughout the town and online from www.visiteastbourne.com.

Order a copy and find out about the packed 2009 flying programme, which includes a fast and furious display from the Red Arrows on all four days, plus appearances from the Guinot Wingwalkers, futuristic Eurofighter Typhoon, Hawk, Tutor, F16, US Air Force KC135 Stratotanker, Tigers Parachute Display Team and more.

Plus there will be nostalgic displays from the Spitfire, Lancaster and Hurricane in the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight providing a moving tribute to the heroic World War II battle, plus historic flights from the Spitfire, Mustang, Hawker and Gnat.

For more information on Airbourne 2009, sponsored by Barratt Southern Counties and TravelInsured.co.uk, visit www.eastbourneairshow.co.uk or telephone 0871 663 0031.

NEW Chief of the Air Staff to Attend Battle of Britain Commemoration at Yorkshire Air Museum

We can now confirm that the newly appointed Chief of the Air Staff, Sir Stephen Dalton KCB ADC BSc FRAes FCMI RAF will be Guest of Honour at the forthcoming Battle of Britain Commemoration Service and Parade, taking place at the Allied Air Forces Memorial (Yorkshire Air Museum) on Sunday 6th September. This will be amongst Sir Stephen’s very first public engagements since taking up the senior position of Chief of the Air Staff on 31st July, and he is attending in his capacity as Vice President of the Allied Air Forces Memorial, Elvington.Organised in conjunction with Royal Air Forces Association, the event will mark the 70th Anniversary of the outbreak of WWII and the famous battles that were fought in the skies and fields of Europe and other occupied territories. The event will feature a huge parade of veterans old and young and National Standards of RAFA and other Service Associations. During the event, Sir Stephen Dalton will present a brand new trophy, the Regional Young Person of the Year Award, to the most outstanding Air Training Corps cadet nominated by regional ATC Squadron’s, which will be a high honour for the chosen recipient.

The Service will be also be attended by The President of the Royal Air Forces Association, Air Marshal Phillip Sturley. The Revd (Sqn Ldr) David Norfield, Station Chaplain RAF Linton on Ouse and Yorkshire Air Museum Chaplain Revd Neill Mackay, will lead the Service of Remembrance in the Canadian Memorial hangar, with the stunning background of the unique WWII Halifax bomber.

Other dignitaries include the Deputy Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Air Commodore William Gambold, the York Civic Party and Station Commanders of RAF bases Linton on Ouse, Group Captain Mike Longstaff, and Fylingdales, Wing Commander Greg Hammond, amongst many others.

A formal Military Parade, March-past and Salute will take place with veterans, serving airmen and women and ATC. The York Railway Institute Band are providing music for the Service, whilst the Air Training Corps Northern Group Band will accompany the Parade and March Past.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Spitfire & Hurricane will be flying at the event which concludes with the emotional Sunset Ceremony and Lowering of the RAF Ensign with the Piper playing the Evening Hymn.

This is a last call for veterans and Squadron Associations / Service Groups from across the country to register their wish to take part in this poignant ceremony in the presence of the Chief of the Air Staff, the most senior position in the RAF, and other high profile guests. We urge you to take this opportunity and enjoy this great occasion with us. Please contact John Allison, Hon. Secretary RAFA on 01904 761077 or contact the Yorkshire Air Museum on 01904 608595.

www.yorkshireairmuseum.co.uk

Twitch Inn Door Returns to Famous Wartime Haunt of Fighter Aces

The cellar door to the legendary ‘Twitch Inn’ at Douces Manor is today being returned to its former home by the Yorkshire Air Museum & Allied Air Forces Memorial, to complete the restoration of this famous wartime haunt. This unusual artefact was donated to the Museum through the Aircrew Association in January 2002.

Douces Manor was the Headquarters and Mess for officers flying from RAF West Malling, in Kent. The cellar bar was frequented by many brave young fighter pilots and, typical of the dry sense of humour of the time, became colloquially known as the ‘Twitch Inn’, due to the nervous affliction that affected many pilots. This noticeable twitch that many displayed was a result of the immense stress, strain and fatigue they experienced during this time of national crisis.

The name was ‘officially’ inscribed into the top half of the swing door by officers of 29 Squadron in 1944, using metal which could possibly have come from aircraft of the time. The bar, which was also adorned with candle soot ‘graffiti’ in the form of signatures and cartoons carved by the airmen into the walls and ceiling, has witnessed many tales of aerial battles won and lost.

Many illustrious air aces have frequented Douces Manor, including ‘Sailor’ Moran, Stanford Tuck, Guy Gibson and Wing Commander John ‘Cats Eyes’ Cunningham with his navigator Jimmy Rawnsley. Together, this pair had become the most successful defensive night fighter team, flying Mosquito aircraft with 85 Squadron and protecting the skies over the Home Counties during 1943. As Commanding Officer of 85 Squadron, John Cunningham actually lived in the Manor House.

The door and other photographic panels were initially donated to the Aircrew Association by Norwich Union, who had been using Douces Manor as a Training Centre, until they vacated the premises. The Yorkshire Air Museum, as the Allied Air Forces Memorial, is now the national repository for items donated to the Aircrew Association and the Twitch Inn artefacts arrived in January 2002. Since then, the Douces Manor site has been redeveloped by Beechcroft Developments, but the cellar bar (Twitch Inn) has now been leased to West Malling Parish Council for a long period for use as a Heritage Centre, managed by the Malling Society. Beechcroft undertook the restoration of the cellar bar in a high quality and sympathetic manner.

Ian Reed, Director, Yorkshire Air Museum, comments: “It is fantastic that these artefacts that have been in our safekeeping for a number of years can be returned to their original home, and complete the restoration of this historic room, which has been witness to so many tales of bravery in the defence of our nation in its darkest hour.”

On behalf of the Malling Society, Margaret McCarthy (Secretary), said: “We are indeed very grateful that the Twitch Inn door panel was saved in the first instance and protected by the Yorkshire Air Museum and the enthusiastic reception to the idea of bringing these artefacts back ‘home’ to Douces Manor on long-term loan is much appreciated. They will be the finishing touch to the restoration project.”

The Douces Manor Heritage Centre will open to the public on certain days and times, and information on this can be found by calling Margaret McCarthy on 01732 220 563 or e-mail: mccarthy804@aol.com

www.yorkshireairmuseum.co.uk

Top Flight of International Displays at Airbourne 2009

The World’s biggest FREE seafront airshow promises a top flight of international flying displays including the RNAF F16, Eurofigher Typhoon, Belgian Sea King and US Air Force KC135.Visitors to Airbourne, Eastbourne’s airshow, will be treated to a packed line up of exciting international displays in 2009 from the United States, Belgian, and Royal Netherlands Air Forces. From watching thrilling displays from the Belgian Sea King and Royal Netherlands Air Force AB412 Search and Rescue aircraft to the popular F16, plus an impressive display from the highly capable and extremely agile Eurofighter Typhoon; airshow enthusiasts can enjoy a world class flying programme.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Susan Morris said “This year’s Airbourne keeps on getting better and better. We already have crowd favourite, the Red Arrows, on all four days and now, with the bumper line up of international displays, visitors are in for a truly spectacular airshow. With entertainment carrying on into the evening at this year’s event, visitors have plenty to look forward to in 2009.”

Other displays confirmed for Airbourne 2009 when it returns to Eastbourne seafront from 13-16 August include the Blades Extra 300, Guinot Wingwalkers, Swift Glider Team, Tigers Parachute Display Team, Tutor, and Mustang.

Visitors will be able to watch in wonder as the glamorous Guinot team perform their daredevil antics aboard the wings of their Boeing Stearman Biplane, while the Blades Extra 300, who have famously displayed at the Beckhams pre-World Cup Party and on TV’s Emmerdale, sweep in and perform twists and turns in the skies.

With tickets on sale now offering the chance for visitors to upgrade their airshow experience in 2009, airshow fans can book exclusive seating at Eastbourne Bandstand for just £7 a day offering uninterrupted views of the flying line, while a day out in the Aviator Club Hospitality Marquee starts from just £50+VAT per person with arena-side seats.

The Friends of Airbourne membership scheme also offers exclusive airshow benefits for those signing up. Airbourne fans can become a Bronze member for free and receive regular newsletters, or upgrade to Silver for just £10 and receive a goody bag, souvenir programme, plus the chance to meet the pilots.

To find out more about Airbourne 2009 visit www.eastbourneairshow.co.uk or telephone 0871 663 0031. Airbourne 2009 is sponsored by Barratt Southern Counties with TravelInsured.co.uk sponsoring the Red Arrows flying display.

Americans in the Royal Air Force

The Royal Air Force Museum, in the run up to American Independence Day, has launched a new online exhibition honouring those American men and women who joined the Royal Air Force during both World Wars to defend Britain against hostile attack.

View the online exhibition by clicking: here

Men such as Olympian and playboy Billy Fiske “an American who died so that England might live” and women such as aviatrix and pioneer Jackie Cochrane who was instrumental in recruiting American female pilots to serve in the Air Transport Auxiliary.

In this online exhibition the Museum recounts their stories, often, in their own words and the cultural challenges they faced; from not wishing to be considered “bragging Yanks” by their new comrades to potentially being branded traitors to their own countrymen for joining a foreign military service.

Stuart Hadaway, Curator of the exhibition states:

“It is amazing how many Americans served with the British flying services during both of the World Wars. Hundreds served with the RAF in the Great War – far more than in the more famous French Escadrille Lafayette.”

During the Second World War tens of thousands volunteered, and they made a valuable contribution. Their efforts were far from limited to the celebrated Eagle Squadrons; they served in every part of the RAF all around the world, and others, including women, flew as civilians with the Air Transport Auxiliary.

They came through a sense of adventure, or more often simply because they felt something must be done to stop the Germans.

Some, like Pilot Officer Billy Fiske, were rich and well-to-do people who literally gave up everything to come and fight for what they believed in. They may have broken American laws to do so, but long before Pearl Harbour these people were fighting for freedom, liberty, and every other American ideal. They were, and remain, the best of their country and true American heroes.”

Both of The Royal Air Force Museum’s sites in London and in Cosford are open daily from 10am to 6pm. Admission is FREE. For further details visit the Museum’s website www.rafmuseum.org

Red Arrows “Flyby” is Airbourne Photo Winner

A photograph showing Airbourne favourite, the Red Arrows, flying past Eastbourne Pier in their famous diamond formation has triumphed in the 2009 Airbourne Photograph Competition.The shot titled ‘Flyby’ and taken by Eastbourne resident, Scott Morley, captures the setting of Eastbourne Airshow, encompassing the resort’s iconic Pier, busy beaches and popular flying display. With nearly 100 entries in total, judges had a tough decision picking the final winner but Scott’s high quality shot, which is instantly recognisable as Eastbourne was a favourite amongst judges.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Susan Morris said “The Airbourne Photograph Competition attracted some fantastic shots of our airshow and it was really tough picking out a single winner. However Scott’s image is brilliant and captures what Airbourne is all about, showing its magnificent seaside setting and a clear shot of the famous Red Arrows flying display.”

The photograph competition attracted almost 100 entries, from close-up shots of the Blades, Guinot Wingwalkers and Hurricane to landscape shots capturing the seafront, South Downs and town centre.

Winning photograph ‘Flyby’ will be printed in the 2009 Official Airbourne Souvenir Programme plus will be printed onto canvas and presented to Scott courtesy of Eastprint at the airshow this summer.

Airbourne enthusiasts will have the opportunity to get their hands on the winning photograph itself with a special edition postcard print to go on sale through VisitEastbourne E-shop later this month.

With Airbourne set to return to Eastbourne this year from 13-16 August, there will be another opportunity for visitors to get snapping at the World’s biggest FREE seafront airshow.

Displays including the Red Arrows on all four days, plus the Guinot Wingwalkers, Blades Aerobatic Formation Team, F16, Tigers Parachute Display Team and Eurofighter Typhoon are also confirmed to appear at Airbourne 2009 promising an action-packed four days.

For more information on this year’s airshow or to view the winning photograph visit www.eastbourneairshow.co.uk or telephone 0871 663 0031.

Spoilt for Choice for Exclusive Views at Airbourne

Visitors to the World’s biggest FREE seafront airshow can enjoy top views of the flying action, including crowd favourite the Red Arrows on all four days, with a variety of exclusive viewing opportunities.Tickets are on sale now for exclusive viewing seats at Eastbourne Bandstand, which return for their sixth year offering uninterrupted views of the flying line for just £7 a day. Plus visitors looking to upgrade their experience at Eastbourne Airshow this summer can book now to become a Gold Friend of Airbourne with entry into an exclusive Friends Enclosure, or enjoy an extra special day out at the Aviator Club hospitality marquee.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Susan Morris said “This year’s Airbourne is shaping up to be action-packed with a fantastic line-up of flying displays as well as plenty of entertainment on the ground too. This year we have a variety of options allowing visitors to upgrade their experience of the bumper-filled airshow with exclusive seats at either the Bandstand, Friends Enclosure on the Western Lawns or arena-side hospitality marquee.

“With exclusive viewing seats starting at just £7 a day, visitors will be able to wander freely around the airshow knowing they have their own seat to return to when the action begins overhead.”

Visitors can book now for seats on the upper balcony and promenade deck at the resort’s 1930’s Bandstand when Airbourne returns from 13-16 August. Overlooking the beach, Airbourne fans can enjoy a seat for the day watching displays including the Guinot Wingwalkers, Blades Aerobatic Formation Team and Hurricane Bomber.

Those looking for an extra special day out can upgrade and book a day out at the Aviator Club, with prices starting from just £50 a day. Offering a unique setting to wine and dine business clients or celebrate a special occasion, Aviator guests can look forward to a champagne welcome, three-course summer lunch and arena-side seats.

2009 also presents a brand new opportunity for Airbourne enthusiasts to get involved in the seafront airshow with new Friends of Airbourne membership packages.

Fans of Airbourne can pledge their support to the seafront event now entering its 17th year and choose from three levels of membership; bronze, silver and gold.

For just £10, become a Silver Friend and receive the official 2009 souvenir programme, an Airbourne radio headset, goody bag, and the opportunity to meet the pilots.

Or visitors can upgrade to become a Gold Friend for just £25 for adults or £12.50 for children and experience an extra special day out, with all of the silver benefits plus entry into an exclusive ‘Friends Enclosure’ on the Western Lawns on the day of their choice at this year’s Airbourne.

For more information on all of the exclusive viewing seats at Airbourne 2009 visit www.eastbourneairshow.co.uk or book online from www.visiteastbourne.com.

The Matadors take to Bournemouth skies

More Bus Bournemouth Air Festival organisers have announced The Matadors as the latest aircraft to be displaying at this years most anticipated summer event.

Regarded as one of the UK’s most dynamic aerobatic teams, The Matadors are set to amaze, impress and wow Air Festival crowds. Internationally renowned and in worldwide demand, the team only fly at a small number of UK air shows each year; and with pilots Paul Bonhomme and Steve Jones, considered to be two of the best in the world, at the helm festival-goers can be sure of some incredible sky-high action.

Steve Jones said; “After last years success there was a real buzz about Bournemouth on the air display circuit. We are incredibly pleased to be part of this summer’s event and are ready to bring some Matador action to the south coast!”

The Matadors display is designed to demonstrate the truly remarkable performance of the Sukhoi 26. The two pilots fly their aircraft in a variety of formation patterns, which include some extreme manoeuvres such as ‘the crossovers’, where Paul and Steve fly towards each other at a combined speed of 400mph.

Jon Weaver, Air Festival Director said; “We are delighted to announce The Matadors participation at the event, adding to our already impressive daytime line-up. The team only display at a few events each year so it is great news that Bournemouth is one of them.”

Taking place 20th – 23rd August, crowds will be in for a heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping 4-days this year, with the incredible Eurofighter Typhoon, Team Guinot Wingwalkers, Yakovlevs and Black Cats Helicopter Display team all set to perform.

For more information visit www.bournemouthair.co.uk

Festival fund-raising

Wounded servicemen and women are set to gain a major boost from Southend Festival of the Air 2009.

An organisation called Help for Heroes – which supports those wounded while serving their country – has been chosen as the Festival’s official charity.

Badged official collectors will circulate among the seafront crowds at the Festival on Sunday 24th May and Monday 25th May.

There will also be a special stall selling memorabilia and promoting the work of Help for Heroes.

  • Help for Heroes was launched in October 2007 to help members of the Armed Forces injured in the course of serving their country.
  • It was borne out of an immense respect for the courage, humour and professionalism of the men and women of the Armed Forces who put their lives in danger, on a regular basis, on our behalf
  • Help for Heroes has raised, on average, over £1 million per month to help our wounded – a total of more than £12 million committed or designated
  • The majority of the money raised has been allocated for building much needed rehabilitation facilities.
  • Much of this money comes from fundraising events organised by people across the country
  • Help for Heroes supports other service charities, and aims to supplement the available facilities and care so those in rehabilitation get the very best facilities and treatment in order to recover from their injuries and rebuild their careers.
  • It benefits members of the Royal Navy, Army and RAF
  • More details are available from http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Executive Councillor for Enterprise, Tourism and Regeneration, Councillor John Lamb says: “We are very pleased that Help for Heroes is the official charity for Southend Festival of the Air 2009.”

At all our previous Airshows we have always had an immense amount of loyal help from members the of the armed services, both airborne and on the ground, so we are delighted to try to give a little bit back by helping a charity which supports their wounded colleagues.

“We hope that as many people as possible will dig deep into their pockets and give as much as they can to this very worthy cause.”

Check out the latest details of Southend Festival of the Air 2009 on www.southendairshow.com

Last Chance to Book for the Airbourne Ball

The first ever Airbourne Lift-Off Dinner takes place on 30 May and fans of the World’s biggest FREE seafront airshow are being encouraged to book quickly for the last remaining tickets.The Chatsworth Hotel will host a special Airbourne dinner evening on Saturday 30 May to celebrate the lead-up to the annual Eastbourne event, with proceeds to go towards the fighting fund to support Eastbourne Airshow.

With the final batch of tickets now available, airshow enthusiasts have only a couple of weeks to book their place at the packed evening, which will include an airshow-themed menu, Rat Pack entertainment from singer Tom Fitzpatrick, engaging guest speaker Group Captain Gordon Bruce and the opportunity to bid for exclusive RAF memorabilia in an after-dinner auction.

Director of Tourism for Eastbourne Borough Council, Norman Kinnish said “The Airbourne launch dinner is a great opportunity for airshow fans to really show their support for the 2009 event and enjoy an evening to remember. Guests can certainly look forward to an impressive evening and with tickets almost sold out; this really is the last chance to enjoy an exclusive dose of Airbourne action before the airshow in August.”

Organised by the Lions Hotel, owner Sheikh Abid Gulzar, is the first Eastbourne businessman to pledge his support for Airbourne, which returns to the town from 13-16 August this year.

Proceeds from the evening will be donated to Airbourne 2009 and contribute to the fighting fund to save the event’s future.

Tickets for the Airbourne lift-off dinner cost £40 per person and are available to book now, online from VisitEastbourne.com E-shop as well as from the Tourist Information Centre and Chatsworth Hotel. Guests can look forward to a scrumptious 5-course dinner, including themed courses such as ‘A fine display team’ for starters and ‘the final fly past’ for the finishing course of English and Continental Cheeses.

For more information on Airbourne visit www.eastbourneairshow.co.uk or telephone 0871 663 0031