The Red Arrows will once again grace the skies in Sidmouth this summer, it has been announced.
Sidmouth Town Council revealed today (Tuesday) that the RAF aerobatic team had confirmed it would be returning for a breathtaking performance over the town on the opening day of Sidmouth Regatta - on Friday, August 24.
To mark the RAF’s 100th anniversary, Sidmouth will also be welcoming the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight consisting of a Lancaster Bomber and two Spitfires.
More than 30,000 spectators attended the 2017 event and helped to raise £14,500 - it is expected to attract just as many people this year, if not more.
Town Clerk Christopher Holland said after learning that Lyme Regis was not going to see the Reds this year, organisers were left nervously waiting for their confirmation which finally arrived from the RAF for both displays today.
He added: “The Display in 2017 attracted around 30,000 spectators in glorious summer weather and was one of the best Red Arrows displays ever but unfortunately the Battle of Britain Flight were not able to fly nationally due to merlin engine issues. Bearing in mind that these aircraft are nearly 80 years old, it is always a possibility. It is hoped that they will be making an appearance in perfect time for the RAF 100 celebrations.”
Read this week’s Sidmouth Herald for the full story.
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