UK Airshow News – Page 68

Fokker triplane to invoke memories of infamous Red Baron at airshow

An aircraft identical to that flown by the infamous ace German fighter pilot the Red Baron is set to thrill crowds at the Battle of Britain Airshow.The Baron, real name Manfred von Richtofen, was the scourge of allied forces during the First World War and is credited with 80 combat victories.

The last 20 of those aerial duels were carried out in a Fokker Dr.1 Dreidecker triplane, and a replica of the machine will take to the skies at the airshow, which takes place at Cotswold Airport on September 17 and 18.

It will be joined by an old adversary in the Sopwith triplane, as well as iconic aircraft from the Second World War, such as the Spitfires and Lancaster of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF).

Richthofen was eventually shot down and killed near Amiens, France, on April 21, 1918, but his legend has lived on and his aerial prowess has been the subject of numerous films, books and documentaries.

Event operations manager Glen Moreman said: “Although the event clearly commemorates the Battle of Britain, it will be fantastic to see two amazing aircraft from an even earlier era in the skies above the Cotswolds.

“The Red Baron is undoubtedly one of the most famous pilots in history and we’re sure the display of an aircraft identical to the one he flew will really capture the imagination.”

In addition to the triplanes and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the Tiger Nine Tiger Moth display team, the RedHawks aerobatic duo, and the South Cerney-based Renegades parachute team will be among the star attractions.

An AN2 and Bucker Jungmeister, will also take to the skies.

Meanwhile, crowds will also be offered the chance to fly in a vintage airliner, courtesy of Classic Flight and its stunning de Havilland Dragon Rapide.

Cotswold Airport-based HH Helicopters will be offering pleasure flights too.

Unlike previous years, when the event was a pure airshow, the 2011 event will also feature a traditional fair, complete with carousel, helter skelter and other rides.

There will also be more than 100 classic vehicles, including around 40 vintage Bentleys, and around 50 military vehicles on display.
Organisers are also inviting local traders to become more involved and use the show to showcase their products and services and create a shopping area featuring the best of local produce.

Event director Suzannah Harvey said: “We’re delighted that more local businesses will be involved this year and showing exactly what the Cotswolds has to offer.

“Of course, the more the merrier, and if anyone still wishes to take part, we would be delighted to hear from them.”

Tickets for the event are priced at £15, with children 16 and under admitted free.

They are available online through the air show website (www.battleofbritainairshow.com); at The Crown public house, West Market Place, Cirencester; Kemble Village Shop; from the following Tourist Information Centres: Cheltenham, Chippenham, Cirencester, Corsham, Malmesbury, Stroud, Swindon, Tetbury, Warminster, Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Melksham, Trowbridge, Gloucester, Tewkesbury; and also by telephoning 08712 301 079.

Local traders are also being offered heavily discounted rates for showground pitches.

For more information on trade stand rates, contact Suzannah Harvey at suzannah@cotswoldairport.com.

The Duxford Air Show Celebrates the Spitfire in Style

Thousands of visitors flocked to The Duxford Air Show this weekend (Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September) to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire.

In a thrilling flying programme, highlights included the only UK appearance by the F-15-E Strike Eagle in 2011, which produced a rip-roaring display which amazed the crowds. The popular Battle of Britain Memorial Flight presented a display with the Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane, while a Hispano HA-1112 Bouchon and Hawker Hurricane recreated the dog fights of the Battle of Britain.

The Royal Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron de Havilland Vampire T.55 and FB6 pair displayed at Duxford for the first time, as did the RAF Beech King Air B200.

Aerial excitement was provided by aerobatic masters The Aerostars and the SWIP Twister Duo. Other highlights included the RAF Westland Sea King performing an Air Sea Rescue demonstration, an energetic display by the Apache helicopter and an elegant display by B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B. The grand flying finale was the poignant sight of seven Spitfires in the skies over Duxford, showcasing the technological development of the Spitfire aircraft. An appreciative silence fell throughout the audience when this finale display took place.

The Second World War was brought to life by living history groups who provided an authentic 1940s atmosphere. Ops 1939-45 recreated an RAF Fighter Pilots’ dispersal point and reconstructed a Second World War Bomber briefing with which visitors participated. The Military Equipment Collectors recreated the role of RAF ground crew, while the March Re-enactors recreated a Home Guard checkpoint.

Colonel Richard Graham hosted his ever-popular talks about the SR-71 Blackbird in the American Air Museum next to the SR-71 spyplane that he flew. There were many fun family activities across the museum, including the Parachute Regiment’s Airborne Forces Jump Tower.

In addition to providing a superb flying display, the F-15E Strike Eagle Demonstration Team were also mingling with and chatting to visitors.

Duxford Radio Society had displays of Second World War radio equipment where visitors could get hands-on and have a go at receiving and transmitting messages.

The Military History Hands On History Zone offered the chance to meet costumed interpreters acting the roles of wartime characters, and to hold and handle historic objects.

A fantastic weekend’s flying and fun activities on the ground ensured that the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire was celebrated in unforgettable style!

Historic biplanes make rare and nostalgic airshow return to Cotswolds

One of the world’s most famous aircraft will make a nostalgic return to the Cotswolds when a display team takes to the skies at the Battle of Britain Airshow later this month.Nearly every UK-based Tiger Moth was based at RAF Kemble (as Cotswold Airport was formerly known ) at the end of the Second World War.

And a large selection of beautifully-restored examples will return to the site for the show, on September 17 and 18, in the form of the Tiger Nine aerobatic display team.

The team only performs a handful of shows each year, which means airshow crowds will get a rare opportunity to see them at close quarters.

Event operations manager Glen Moreman said: “It will be great to see the team at the airshow and I’m sure that, for some of our older visitors from within the local area, it will be very nostalgic too.

“Most civilian aircraft were compulsorily taken over by the RAF during the war and a large number of Tiger Moths were based at Kemble towards the end of the conflict when they were then sold back for regular use.

“It’s almost certain that most of the Tiger Moths in the Tiger Nine team will have been among those based here and for them to choose the Battle of Britain Airshow as one of the few they perform at throughout the year is fantastic. I’m sure the crowd will love them.”

In addition to the Tiger Nine team, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster) will perform.

There will also be a display by the South Cerney-based Renegades parachute team and the RedHawks aerobatic display team, and an AN2, Chipmunk and Bucker Jungmeister will also take to the skies.

Meanwhile, crowds will also be offered the chance to fly in a vintage airliner, courtesy of Classic Flight and its stunning de Havilland Dragon Rapide.

Cotswold Airport-based HH Helicopters will be offering pleasure flights too.
Unlike previous years, when the event was a pure airshow, the 2011 event will also feature a traditional fair, complete with carousel, helter skelter and other rides.

Organisers are also inviting local traders to become more involved and use the show to showcase their products and services and create a shopping area featuring the best of local produce.

Event director Suzannah Harvey said: “The Cotswolds offer so much and we are really keen to showcase exactly what local businesses and individuals provide.

“We truly want local people to feel part of what we are trying to achieve at the airport and through our events and have been very encouraged by the interest shown so far.”

Tickets for the event are priced at £15, with children 16 and under admitted free.

They are available online through the air show website (www.battleofbritainairshow.com); at The Crown public house, West Market Place, Cirencester; Kemble Village Shop, Windmill Road, Kemble; from the following Tourist Information Centres: Cheltenham, Chippenham, Cirencester, Corsham, Malmesbury, Stroud, Swindon, Tetbury, Warminster, Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Melksham, Trowbridge, Gloucester, Tewkesbury; and also by telephoning 08712 301 079.

Local traders are also being offered heavily discounted rates for showground pitches.

For more information on trade stand rates, contact Suzannah Harvey at suzannah@cotswoldairport.com.

Al Murrays Spitfire Adventure at IWM Duxford

Comedian Al Murray visited Imperial War Museum Duxford yesterday (1st September) for a flight in a Spitfire to promote The Duxford Air Show (Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September) which will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire.

He took to the skies in Aircraft Restoration Company’s Spitfire TR9, piloted by John Romain.

On landing back at Duxford, a beaming Al said, “That was the most extraordinary thing. I haven’t had time to digest it yet. It was just mind-boggling.”

Al is a huge fan of Duxford and a great enthusiast of aviation and Second World War history generally.

About Duxford, he said, “Duxford is brilliant because it’s a historic site where history is being kept alive with an amazing collection of aircraft and dedicated people keeping them going.”

The Duxford Air Show on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire at the home of this iconic aircraft.

A spectacular flying display includes the only UK appearance in 2011 of the United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, a thrilling aircraft to watch in action and a true highlight of the flying programme. On Thursday 1 September, the F-15E Eagle rehearsed its flying display in the skies over Duxford. (Photo attached).

Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire, Duxford marks the technological development of this legendary fighter with static and aerial displays by a range of Spitfires, from the original Mark I Spitfire through to the Mark XVI.

Never-seen-before displays at Duxford include the Royal Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron de Havilland Vampire T.55 and FB6 Pair and the RAF Beech King Air B200.

Fun is not just to be had in the air as there are plenty of activities for all the family to enjoy throughout the day, including living history groups bringing the Second World War to life; Colonel Richard Graham hosting talks next to the SR-71Blackbird in the American Air Museum; an Airfix Make and Paint zone and more fun activities for all the family.

With the Museum open as usual, this fun-packed day out will ensure that the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire is celebrated in unforgettable style!

Al Murray is one of the most recognisable and successful comedians in the UK with his alter-ego The Pub Landlord. His British Comedy Award-winning ITV1 series Al Murray’s Happy Hour has delighted both viewers and critics alike with his no-nonsense treatment of his celebrity guests.

Out of character, Al has hosted Al Murray’s German Adventure (BBC Four), a historical series about the art and culture of Germany, as well as appearances on What’s So Funny… (Channel 4), That Sunday Night Show (ITV), Frank Skinner’s Opinionated (BBC 2), Have I Got News For You (BBC 1) and The Road to Berlin, a 10-episode documentary series on the Second World War for Discovery.

Tickets for The Duxford Air Show can be purchased on each day of the air show (advance booking has now closed). For further information go to www.iwm.org.uk/duxford

The Duxford Air Show Celebrating the Spitfire in Style

The Duxford Air Show (Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September) celebrates the 75th anniversary of the first flight of the Spitfire, at the home of this iconic aircraft.A spectacular flying display includes the only UK appearance in 2011 of the United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, a thrilling aircraft to watch in action and a true highlight of the flying programme.

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will display its Avro Lancaster, Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane while a Hispano HA-1112 Bouchon and Hawker Hurricane will recreate the dog fights of the Battle of Britain in the skies over this historic fighter base.

Never-seen-before displays at Duxford include the Royal Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron de Havilland Vampire T.55 and FB6 Pair and the RAF Beech King Air B200.

Aerial excitement will be provided by aerobatic masters The Aerostars, the largest civilian formation aerobatic team in the world. The SWIP Twister Duo performs graceful aerobatics in the Silence Twister which, with its elliptical wings, strongly resembles the Supermarine Spitfire. The SWIP Twister Duo is aerobatic experts Peter Wells and Guy Westgate.

The Piper Cub Truck Top Landing is a spectacle not to be missed! As a large truck drives down the runway, pilot Brendan O’Brien lines up a Piper Cub and lands it on the roof – a feat of skill and precision that amazes audiences.

The RedHawks Duo formation display team performs elegant glider displays to music, a gentle and graceful contrast to the more powerful aircraft displays.

Other highlights include the French Air Force Dassault/ Dornier Alpha Jet (Saturday only), Augusta Westland Apache AH Mk I, RAF Westland Sea King, Royal Navy Historic Flight Fairey Swordfish, B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B, Curtiss P-40F Warhawk, Curtiss P-40B Warhawk, Hawk 75, North American Fennec T-28 (x2) and the Hawker Nimrod (x2).

On static display will be the Polish Air Force M-28 and Historic Aircraft Collection’s newly restored Hawker Fury Mk I, the only one of its kind in the world.

Fun is not just to be had in the air as there are plenty of activities for all the family to enjoy throughout the day.

The Second World War will be brought to life by various re-enactment groups, who will be meeting and chatting to visitors across the Museum. Ops 1939-45 will be recreating an RAF Fighter Pilots’ dispersal position and giving visitors a glimpse of 1940s Bomber briefings in action.

The Military Equipment Collectors will be recreating the role of the RAF ground crew who kept Spitfires constantly at scramble readiness throughout the Battle of Britain and beyond. They will be displaying an RAF Mobile Mechanic Unit with early Second World War field equipment.

The March Re-enactors will be recreating a Home Guard checkpoint, so have your identity cards at the ready!

Colonel Richard Graham will be hosting his ever-popular talks about the SR-71 Blackbird in the American Air Museum next to the SR-71 Spyplane that he flew. In Land Warfare, visitors can meet and chat to veterans of the Burma Star campaign, who will be talking about their personal experiences of warfare.

There are lots of fun things for all the family to do together. At the Airfix Make and Paint Zone, visitors can make their own model aircraft, paint it in a range of colours and take it home as a souvenir of a fabulous air show day.

On the Hangar Base, there is Second World War paintballing, 1940s outfits for children to try on and mini-tank rides. The RAF Recruitment Team will also be on the Hangar Base, inviting visitors to climb aboard the replica Tornado model. For any daredevil visitors, the Parachute Regiment will be offering jumps from the Airborne Forces Jump Tower.

The Military History Hands on History Zone in Hanger 4: Battle of Britain offers the chance to meet a costumed interpreter acting the role of a wartime character and to hold and handle historic objects.

There is also the chance to learn more about historic objects in the American Air Museum.

Duxford Radio Society has displays of Second WorldWar radio equipment where visitors can get hands-on and have a go at transmitting and receiving messages.

Visitors can enhance their day by enjoying a tank ride, a flight in a classic 1930s aeroplane or a children’s fun ride.

With the Museum open as usual, this fun-packed day out will ensure that the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire is celebrated in unforgettable style!

The IWM Duxford Air Show App 2011

Following the launch of the IWM Duxford Air Shows App at the Spring Air Show and some enthusiastic feedback from users, we have refined the Air Shows App for use at The Duxford Air Show.

The App will now run faster and more seamlessly, providing real time, up-to-the-minute information about what is flying at The Duxford Air Show, as the aircraft display.

Available for both Android and iPhone platforms, the App also includes an extensive library of photography, statistics and information about classic aircraft you can see flying in the 2011 air shows and where in the Museum you can find out more about them.

The App is currently FREE to download. It will be available for download prior to The Duxford Air Show and on the day itself – IWM Duxford will be providing wifi access at the museum for live downloading.

This dynamic guide to The Duxford Air Show, and our other air shows throughout 2011, is a first for Duxford and demonstrates the Imperial War Museum’s commitment to innovation in new technologies. It aims to be the most innovative air show app around.

For further information go to www.iwm.org.uk/duxfordairshows

Airshow visitors offered chance of a flight in vintage aircraft

Visitors to the Battle of Britain Airshow are being offered the rare opportunity of a flight in a vintage airliner.The event, at Cotswold Airport, on September 17 and 18, will feature some of the most iconic aircraft of the Second World War, including the Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster of the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF).

However, crowds will also get the chance to take to the skies themselves, courtesy of Classic Flight and its beautifully restored de Havilland Dragon Rapide.

The 1940s-built twin-engined airliner was one of the most successful British commercial short-haul passenger aircraft of its time.

And Classic Flight will be offering pleasure flights throughout the airshow weekend.

Event operations manager Glen Moreman said: “The Dragon Rapide is a beautiful aircraft and a flight will surely live long in anyone’s memory.

“Classic Flight have been to Cotswold Airport on several occasions and we’re delighted to be welcoming the Dragon Rapide back and offering visitors a fantastic opportunity.”

In addition to the Dragon Rapide, Cotswold Airport-based HH Helicopters will be offering pleasure flights.

Crowds will also get the chance to visit the various flying clubs and organisations on-site, which specialise in everything from flying lessons to Top Gun aerial combat experiences.

Other performers will include the Tiger Nine Tiger Moth display team and the South Cerney-based Renegades parachute team.

An AN2 – the world’s largest single-engined biplane – and a Chipmunk will also take to the skies.

Unlike previous years, when the event was a pure airshow, the 2011 event will also feature a traditional fair, complete with carousel, helter skelter and other rides.

Organisers are also inviting local traders to become more involved and use the show to showcase their products and services and create a shopping area featuring the best of local produce.

Event director Suzannah Harvey said: “We’ve already had a great response from local businesses and are extremely keen to attract even more participation from the surrounding community.

“We want to show everyone exactly what the Cotswolds has to offer, as well as provide an event that caters for all the family.”

Tickets for the event are priced at £15, with children 16 and under admitted free.

They are available online through the air show website (www.battleofbritainairshow.com); at The Crown public house, West Market Place, Cirencesrer; from the following Tourist Information Centres: Cheltenham, Chippenham, Cirencester, Corsham, Malmesbury, Stroud, Swindon, Tetbury, Warminster, Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Melksham, Trowbridge, Gloucester, Tewkesbury, and also by telephoning 08712 301 079.

Local traders are also being offered heavily discounted rates for showground pitches.

For more information on trade stand rates, contact Suzannah Harvey at suzannah@cotswoldairport.com

Royal Air Force Kemble opened in 1938 as part of the RAF’s ‘expansion plan’, which concentrated on training and maintenance bases.

It has been used for aviation activities ever since and was home to the world-famous Red Arrows display team during the 1980s, who were a regular sight in the skies above the south Cotswolds, practicing up to four times a day.

The airport’s current owner, Ronan Harvey, operated the airfield on behalf of the Ministry of Defence for five years, before purchasing it outright in 2001.

His aim was to maintain the site’s use as an active airfield and safeguard its rich heritage, while at the same time encouraging both local and international businesses to base themselves at Kemble – a move which has created hundreds of jobs in the local community,

Today, the site, which is known as Cotswold Airport and is licenced by the Civil Aviation Authority, is home to dozens of businesses, flying clubs and a thriving restaurant.

The airport stages a host of events, including the hugely popular annual Cotswold Airshow, Vintage Flying Weekend, Race for Life, and Mobility Show – the biggest UK show devoted to mobility for the disabled.

In addition, the airport has very strong ties with the local community, offering an aviation scholarship scheme to young pilots, engineers and would-be traffic controllers.

The airport also raises thousands of pounds for charities and worthy causes, including the RAF Benevolent Fund.

United States Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle Demonstration to make UK appearance at Duxford Air Show

Imperial War Museum Duxford is delighted to announce that the United States Air Force (USAF) F-15E Strike Eagle demonstration will display at The Duxford Air Show (Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 September) in its only UK appearance in 2011.

The F-15E Strike Eagle is a dual-role fighter aircraft with two crew members, a pilot and a weapons systems officer, performing air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. An array of avionics and electronics systems gives the F-15E the capability to fly at low altitude, day or night, and in all weather. It also gives the aircraft the ability to destroy enemy ground positions and fight its way out of combat situations.

The F-15E Strike Eagle is a thrilling aircraft to watch in flight and its presentation at The Duxford Air Show will provide an exciting highlight to an amazing programme of aerial activity. The F-15E Strike Eagle Demonstration will be performed by Major Mike “Cash” Maeder, the Air Combat Command’s Strike Eagle Demonstration Team Pilot and Commander.

As the Demonstration pilot, Mike showcases America’s F-15E Strike Eagle to more than seven million people at approximately 65 shows around the world every year. He is currently assigned as an F-15 Eagle instructor pilot.

The F-15E Strike Eagle Demonstration Team operates from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina and is part of the United States Air Force 4th Fighter Wing. It has the distinction of being the only Air Force unit that can trace its history back to Great Britain.

The lineage of the 4th Fighter Wing can be traced back directly to RAF Duxford during the 1940s. Prior to the United States officially entering the Second World War, American volunteers were already serving in combat with the Royal Air Force Eagle Squadrons.

There were three Eagle Squadrons – Nos. 71, 121 and 133. No.133 Squadron, reformed as the 3rd RAF Eagle Squadron on 31 July 1941, was based at Duxford from August to October 1941. On both occasions, it operated from Fowlmere, Duxford’s satellite fighter station.

When the United States entered the Second World War, the Eagle Squadron units, and their American pilots, were transferred to the United States Army Air Forces 8th Air Force, forming the 4th Fighter Group on 12 September 1942. The 4th Fighter Group was redesignated as the 4th Tactical Fighter Wing in July 1958.

Today, the 4th Fighter Wing is one of two on-call rapid response aerospace expeditionary wings. The 4th Fighter Wing was the first to assume this mission on 1 October 1999.

The historic link between Duxford and the United States Air Force continues to the present day.

The only UK appearance by the F-15E Strike Eagle Demonstration forms a key highlight of a superb flying programme at The Duxford Air Show. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Spitfire, Duxford marks the technological development of this iconic aircraft with static and aerial displays by a range of Spitfires, from the original Mark I Spitfire through to the Mark XVI.

Aerobatic excitement is provided by the Aerostars on Saturday 3 September and the Red Arrows on Sunday 4 September.

Additional highlights include the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane French Air Force Alpha Jet (Saturday only), RAF Sea King, Army Apache, RAF King Air, Royal Navy Historic Flight Swordfish, SWIP Twister Duo, B-17 Flying Fortress Sally B, T-28 Trojan (x2), Curtiss 75 Hawk, Hawker Hurricane, Bouchon 109, Curtiss P-40F, Curtiss P-40B and, on static display, the Italian Air Force C-27J and the Polish Air Force M-28.

With such a spectacular air display, The Duxford Air Show, celebrating the legendary Spitfire, is not to be missed!

The IWM Duxford Air Show App 2011

Following the launch of the IWM Duxford Air Show App at the Spring Air Show and some enthusiastic feedback from users, we have refined the Air Show App for use at The Duxford Air Show.

The App will now run faster and more seamlessly, providing real time, up-to-the-minute information about what is flying at The Duxford Air Show, as the aircraft display.

For further information go to www.iwm.org.uk/duxfordairshows

Military History supports Duxford’s 2011 Air Shows

Imperial War Museum Duxford is delighted that Military History is supporting its 2011 air show season.

In addition to brand positioning across the Duxford air shows, Military History is supporting the new Duxford Air Shows App and a ‘Hands on History’ zone, which gives families the opportunity to learn
about history together in a fun and interactive way during Duxford’s air shows.

Military History is the only channel dedicated to the conflicts, people and technology that shaped our modern world. With programmes that feature expert interviews, eyewitness accounts, astonishing archive and re-enactments, we take you into the war rooms, in the seat of a fighter jet and onto the battlefield.

Military History is available in the UK on Sky 531 and Virgin Media 236.

Eastbourne Airbourne Goes Global

Eastbourne is celebrating a spectacular weekend with Airbourne 2011 attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the destination to witness the thrilling aerobatics and action-packed arena displays, as well as reaching its biggest ever online audience.For the first time this year Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow was streamed live online through the new Airbourne TV and with several websites carrying the feed, the Eastbourne event reached more than 60,000 viewers across the world.

Attracting some of the most visibly busy crowds in the event’s history; Airbourne was also enjoyed by online viewers in countries such as the USA, India, Brazil, Thailand, Germany, Italy, France and the Philippines.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Neil Stanley said “What a brilliant four days we have just enjoyed in Eastbourne! Airbourne 2011 really did surpass all expectations and despite a bad start with the weather on Thursday, the rest of the weekend showed Eastbourne to be back on form with bright sunshine and blue skies!

“The seafront was absolutely packed with visitors all here to enjoy our four day flying spectacular and it was a fantastic sight to see so many people enjoying themselves at our fabulous free event. Airbourne TV was a great addition this year meaning that we could raise awareness of Eastbourne across the globe with the live stream and it also offered visitors to the event the chance to watch exclusive interviews with pilots and display crews for the first time.

“Airbourne is a magnificent event for Eastbourne; not only does it bring new visitors to the town spending in local businesses but it also raises the profile of the destination. I’d like to pass on my thanks to the many partners and sponsors who support Airbourne, including the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy and the British Army, the emergency service teams and all the concessions and exhibitors who help to fund the how. I’d particularly like to thank the Eastbourne Hospitality Association, who carry out the bucket collection to raise funds towards the future of the event. If anyone missed the bucket collectors on the day, there is still time to donate either in person at the Tourist Information Centre or online via VisitEastbourne.com.

“We would also like to thank our major sponsors Eastbourne Pier, SITA, Stagecoach, Shepherd Neame, Southern Railway, Specsavers, Moira House School, Renault UK, Cherry Broadband and Geo Collins Honda for their generous support of the show.”

This year’s Airbourne welcomed several new displays, including the Royal Navy Black Cats, classic jets Hawker Hunter ‘Miss Demeanour’ and F86 Sabre, and the return of the RAF Tornado, with visitors also pleased to see the Royal Marines Unarmed Combat back in the arena.

Hundreds of visitors lined the arena on Saturday afternoon to meet the Red Arrows for their special ground visit with the display team greeting fans, signing autographs and even practicing their football skills with Brighton and Hove Albion. On Saturday evening, visitors watched and sang along to a screening of the popular 70s movie Grease at the Western Lawns.

Icon Stylists added a new element to the event this year with Hairbourne offering the chance for visitors to have their hair cut by celebrity hairdresser Jal Clarke in return for donations towards the event. Scores of people queued each day for a hair cut and hundreds of visitors watched the hairdressing team in action on the Wish Tower Slopes.

Airshow fans made the most of popular social networking sites Twitter and Facebook to interact with fellow Airbourne visitors and share their comments and photos throughout the event, with the event’s official twitter feed attracting an additional 400 followers during the past week and over 521 new likes on the official facebook page.

Airbourne is set to return to Eastbourne next summer for its 20th anniversary year from 9 – 12 August.

For more information and to contribute to this year’s retiring collection, with 70% of monies going towards Airbourne’s future and 30% to the Eastbourne RNLI Lifeboats go to www.eastbourneairshow.com or call 0871 663 0031.

Visitors Encouraged to Recycle at Airbourne

Eastbourne company Haulaway Ltd is teaming up with the organisers of Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow to encourage visitors to recycle their rubbish during the free four day event this week.Taking place from tomorrow, Thursday 11th – Sunday 14th August, Airbourne attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and this year is stepping up its recycling efforts by introducing Haulaway Ltd’s new wheelie bins throughout the site.

Haulaway Ltd has dedicated 27 brand new wheelie bins ranging from 1100ltr to 660ltr to be placed around the Airbourne site to encourage visitors to recycle their glass and cardboard. All waste streams will then be brought back to Haulaway Ltd’s Transfer Station in nearby Hailsham where it will be segregated into its recycled commodities.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism and Leisure Cllr Neil Stanley said “We are very pleased to be working alongside Haulaway Ltd at Airbourne this year to make it as easy as possible for visitors to recycle their waste. Bins will be located close to all of the catering units and I really want to urge visitors to make the most of the recycling facilities available.

The Council’s Waste Awareness Team will be on site at Airbourne this year with an informative stand to tell visitors about all things recycling. Visitors and residents will be able to find out how much is recycled in the town and exactly what happens to it.

Airbourne opens at 10am this Thursday and promises a packed four days of thrilling flying, arena displays, evening concerts and a firework finale. The Red Arrows will be displaying on Friday, Saturday and Sunday alongside a bumper programme of RAF, Royal Navy, and civilian displays.

For more information on what’s on at Airbourne go to www.visiteastbourne.com or call 0871 663 0031. Visitors will also be able to keep up with the action via Airbourne TV on three large screens on the seafront or online at www.visiteastbourne.com/airbournetv.

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight legends in moving tribute at Cotswold show

The most iconic aircraft of the Second World War will take to the skies in a moving tribute at the Battle of Britain Air Show and festival, at Cotswold Airport.The Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster of the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) are set to play the starring role at this year’s show, on September 17 and 18.

Unlike previous years, when the event was a pure airshow, the 2011 event will also feature a steam fair, complete with carousel, helter skelter and other rides. Organisers are also inviting local traders to become more involved and use the show to showcase their products and services and create a shopping area featuring the best of local produce.

Event director Suzannah Harvey said: “Last year’s event was a sell out and we want to build on that huge success and create a real festival atmosphere.

“As always, we want to ensure the show is a fitting tribute to all those who fought so gallantly for our freedom in the Second World War.

“But we also want local people to become more involved and really feel like an integral part of the event.”

The BoB Airshow will also commemorate the 75th anniversary of the first flight of the Spitfire and the BBMF are one again set to thrill the crowds.

The flight, based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, serves as a flying tribute to the many courageous pilots, some still in their teens, who took to the skies against an enemy German air force that had vastly superior numbers of aircraft.

Along with Europe’s only flying Lancaster bomber, the flight operates no less than five Supermarine Spitfires of various marks (one of which actually fought in the Battle of Britain), two Hawker Hurricanes and a Dakota.

Other performers will include the Tiger Nine Tiger Moth display team and the South Cerney-based Renegades parachute team.

An AN2, Dragon Rapide and a Chipmunk, representing the airport-based fly2help charity, will also take to the skies.

Event operations manager Glen Moreman said: “It’s always a delight to see the BBMF return to the skies above the Cotswolds and this year’s show has added significance in that it marks a true milestone for the Spitfire.

“We’ve got a beautiful setting here at Cotswold Airport and, because the BoB Airshow will be based on the north side, around the control tower, it gives the event a very intimate and atmospheric feel.”

Cotswold Airport will continue to support the charities fly2help and the RAF Benevolent Fund during the weekend of the show.

Tickets for the event are priced at £15, with children 16 and under admitted free.

They are available online through the air show website (www.battleofbritainairshow.com); from the following Tourist Information Centres: Cheltenham, Chippenham, Cirencester, Corsham, Malmesbury, Stroud, Swindon, Tetbury, Warminster, Bath, Bourton-on-the-Water, Melksham, Trowbridge, Gloucester, Tewkesbury; from The Crown public house, Cirencester; and via telephone 08712 301 079.

Local traders are also being offered heavily discounted rates for showground pitches.

For more information on trade stand rates, contact Suzannah Harvey at suzannah@cotswoldairport.com.